THE VOICE OF INDEPENDENT FUNERAL DIRECTORS August 2017 | NO. 191

THIS IS A DAY YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS

BOOK YOUR PLACE AT SAIF EDUCATION DAY PAGE 30

SAIFCHARTER EXECUTIVE NOMINEES PAGE 34

BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS NATALIE McKAIL DISCUSSES HER NEW ROLE AS THE FIRST INSPECTOR OF FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Your new SAIFInsight is packed with the latest news and features, with the best business advice, education and training, plus a handy directory

CONTENTS

FEATURES

22 26 30 POSITIVELY UNIQUE CELEBRATING 160 YEARS EDUCATION & TRAINING The first Inspector of Funeral For six generations, one Book your spot at the annual Directors in Scotland stresses staunchly independent SAIF Education Day. The the benefits of listening, family business has been at event covers a wide range participation and collaboration the heart of its community of areas and specialisms

REGULARS CONTACTS

PUBLISHERS EDITORIAL 08 32 SAIF Claire Day, co-editor REPORTER POLITICS SAIF Business Centre [email protected] This issue is packed with We examine the latest 3 Bullfields Michael Fern, co-editor all the latest news, political news and Sawbridgeworth michael.fern@ including results from Hertfordshire CM21 9DB goldencharter.co.uk views surrounding Telephone: 0345 230 6777 the SAIF webinar series, the funeral profession PRODUCTION continued membership National President: Produced by: of the IFD College Paul Bowley Connect Publications and advertising for 35 [email protected] (Scotland) Ltd Independents BUSINESS MATTERS Chief Executive: Managing Editors: Advice on business Terry Tennens David Cameron values, employment law, [email protected] david@connect 18 Scottish President: Mark Porteous communications.co.uk calculating pay and fire SAIF PRESIDENT [email protected] Roisin McGroarty risks in the workplace Paul Bowley has been roisin@connect communications.co.uk GOLDEN CHARTER listening to and actively Design: Raymond Francis 40 Head Office supporting SAIF members and Mick Reilly DIRECTORY Canniesburn Gate Bearsden G61 1BF Contact Golden Charter ADVERTISING Telephone: 0141 942 5855 21 RSMs or BDMs, or find Advertising sales: Jane Deane jane@connect NEW MEMBERS your local SAIF Associate Chief Executive Officer: communications.co.uk in our comprehensive Ronnie Wayte A warm welcome to those Telephone: 0131 561 0020 who have joined SAIF listings section [email protected]

The publisher encourages readers to support the advertisers in SAIFInsight but cannot be held responsible for any claims made or implied in the advertisements. The publishers reserve the right to refuse advertising. Any opinions expressed in SAIFInsight by contributing writers and advertisers are not necessarily those of the publishers. While every reasonable effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contributed to SAIFInsight, no legal responsibility will be accepted by the publishers for any loss arising from use of published information. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior consent. Articles and pictures for inclusion are welcomed but the publishers cannot accept responsibility for their loss or damage, however caused.

3

LEADER

TERRY TENNENS SAIF CHIEF EXECUTIVE Collaboration With the funeral profession facing major changes, it is vital the industry works together. SAIF and its Executive Committees are diligently working behind the scenes

ear colleagues, Governors it was agreed “in principle” Let me start with a warm to seek to work together by offering welcome to Natalie McKail, IN SAIF a full suite of funeral qualifications the first Inspector of Funeral WE BELIEVE together. This is not a merger, but DDirectors appointed by the Scottish both organisations will retain their Government. In SAIF we believe LEGISLATION own identity, and offer their courses; legislation for regulation is largely a good FOR REGULATION however, we would like to be able to move, to ensure the manner in which the provide a joint pathway for students to funeral director is a professional – by IS LARGELY A be accredited across courses. This is an offering bespoke services to the deceased GOOD MOVE exciting development in preparation of and next of kin at a deeply vulnerable Terry Tennens regulation among funeral directors. time of grief. SAIF, along with our Also, it was a privilege to meet with colleagues at the NAFD, are collaborating the education leaders across the sector as per the Stirling Agreement, which is offer funeral plans that have a trust fund at another joint meeting called by SAIF actively drawing up a joint code of that is regulated with appropriate legal, with the BIE, BIFD, Co-op, Dignity, practice for members across both financial and actuarial safeguards over IFD College and NAFD to discuss how organisations. This will lead to aligning clients’ members’ money. we prepare for regulation in Scotland. and benchmarking our professional Consequently, we will be consulting New National Occupational Standards standards and quality assurance our membership for your views on (NOS) have been drawn up and each programmes to ensure parity, as the whether we insist all members only institution will review their learning professional associations ensuring best sell and conduct FPA-registered plans outcomes against this and benchmark practices as we prepare for a regulated or that SAIF provides members with their assessment model. environment. guidance notes on what to look for in It will be vital that we work together terms and conditions on accepting a in the face of licencing and a regulated Pre-need funeral plans – regulation plan. Consumer protection is our primary environment. Therefore, I urge that Members will be aware that there concern in these matters. as you consider the autumn schedule are various types of funeral planning Please respond to the survey that will of your staff training, you give serious companies. For instance, Ecclesiastical be emailed to your firm. consideration by exploring accredited is an insurance-based plan that is directly training via the IFD College or one of regulated by the Financial Conduct An educated profession – IFD College the other courses offered. Authority (FCA) and as such, has to meet and BIFD working closely together There are lots of changes afoot in exacting standards to ensure the client’s SAIF has forged a strong partnership the profession; therefore, please don’t financial product – the funeral plan – is over the years with the IFD College, hesitate to contact the SAIF Business safeguarded from any risk of fiscal loss which is accredited by the ONE awards. Centre or the Executive Committees of in the market. SAIF has secured CPD accreditation SAIF for advice and guidance. They are SAIF’s preferred funeral plan provider validated by CPD UK, a nationally working diligently behind the scenes for is Golden Charter, which similarly offers a recognised awarding institution. you, the independent funeral director. plan and has led the way in participating in The strength of the IFD College has Best wishes, the Funeral Planning Authority (FPA). The been from accrediting hearse drivers to FPA currently does not have legislation to offering funeral operative or administration mandate funeral planning companies to sign work-based learning awards. The up; however, the FPA does report to the Governors, tutors and assessors of the IFD FCA and liaise on funeral planning cases College have achieved a great deal! for them to investigate financial irregularity. Recently in a joint meeting with the SAIF is clear that members need to BIFD Board of Education and the IFDC [email protected]

5 Book your place at the AGM and awards dinner by emailing: [email protected]

Alternatively, call our booking team on 0800 145 6520

Dinner includes a glass of champagne on arrival, a three course meal with tea or coffee, half a bottle of house wine and half a bottle of filtered water.

Each SAIFCharter firm in attendance at the awards is entitled to two complementary places, with nominees who attend receiving four places free of charge. Beyond this, due to the likelihood of oversubscription, further tickets will be available to buy at the subsidised rate of £75 per person. All prices include VAT.

You can also book your accommodation online at parkplaza.com/goldencharter17 or by calling 0844 854 5292 quoting PAC code: GOLD08.

Specially negotiated rates are available for a limited time only. COMMENTARY

RONNIE WAYTE GOLDEN CHARTER CHIEF EXECUTIVE Choosing to plan ahead together Golden Charter, SAIFCharter and SAIF are linked by a common heritage

ou might have spotted in last National SAIF and Scottish SAIF continue trade body or by Golden Charter. month’s issue that a swathe of to appoint suitable representatives to the We all know the challenges we face, at Golden Charter staff are now SAIFCharter Executive, which is one key a time of evolving consumer requirements signed up as Dementia Friends. way of maintaining a constant liaison and expectations alongside looming YFollowing on from our continuing between the organisations and building regulation. The decision to work so work with The Royal British Legion on our mutual interests. closely together lets us work in tandem and Poppyscotland – not to mention Golden Charter continues to financially to out-think and outpace those challenges. our status as the oldest corporate support events and communications There is no denying the results – with the partner of the Woodland Trust – our for SAIF and encourages an active help of this tight knit connection between charity partnerships have increasingly recruitment of new members through funeral planning and independent funeral made their way into more of the our field team – the local Golden Charter directors, you have carved out that company’s work. representatives who act as your first port increasingly rare thing: a profession where That should not be surprising. Not of call for any questions around funeral the Independents are in the driving seat. just because these organisations reflect planning or related issues. Golden Charter’s charity partnerships the values of Golden Charter and the If there is no formal connection are a reflection of how electing to work independent funeral directors who own between these organisations, how have together can push forward all aspects of it, but beyond that, choosing to work they continued to work so closely? Simply what we do. Beginning to work with The together for the common good is built by choosing to do so, to benefit all parties Royal British Legion and Poppyscotland into the whole structure that has made by presenting a united front. was an idea first floated by an independent Golden Charter such a success. This union is a living thing, always funeral director, and look where it has led: While the names are similar, there is informing decisions and reacting widely seen national campaigns, and a no formal partnership or governing link to change. Right now, SAIFCharter genuine boost for an important charity between Golden Charter, SAIFCharter is increasingly looking to the trade that works in tandem with funeral plan and SAIF. What links the three is a body to respond to a rapidly changing sales to produce a virtuous cycle. It common heritage, which we have built environment by continuing to rapidly reflects the way SAIF, SAIFCharter and into the way we work. For example, change its own strategy in turn, to best Golden Charter work together, and is prepare the independent funeral sector a direct result of Independents feeding for the current and future markets. thoughts back to the plan provider. At the same time, it is entirely right I see that link every day, and with the that Golden Charter uses the commercial SAIFCharter AGM only a month away CHARITY expertise it has to deliver commercial now, we all soon have a chance to see it PARTNERSHIPS benefits to shareholders. up close. It is absolutely not for Golden Charter REFLECT HOW to tell the trade body how to function, just WE CAN PUSH as it would be unacceptable for the trade body to attempt to influence or control FORWARD ALL Golden Charter. These are the only ASPECTS OF circumstances that could put a genuine strain on our unique relationships. Happily, OUR WORK such short-sightedness is not something Ronnie Wayte that has ever been demonstrated by the [email protected]

7 SAIF AGM COUNTDOWN + IFD MEMBERSHIP + TANK HEARSE + DRIVING FAMILIES TO INDEPENDENTS + Reporter WEBINAR RESULTS + MODERN SLAVERY AWARENESS

It’s time to book your place SAIF AGM and Banquet weekend is set for 16-18 March 2018

reparations are well under way for the 2018 SAIF AGM and Banquet weekend. The popular event will Ptake place from 16-18 March 2018 at the Grand Hotel Brighton and several bookings have already been made. Bed & breakfast per room per night This package is available in some The weekend activities start with the (to include: full English breakfast Classic Sea View and Deluxe traditional Friday Associates Lunch (by and use of 1st floor gym) bedrooms and includes: invitation only). This will be followed by: Single: £125.00 + vat n Sky HD TV in your room n Saturday morning will be business Double/twin: £145.00 + vat including Sky Movies with SAIF Annual General Meeting n Starbucks & Verisimo coffee n Saturday evening, of course, is For room upgrades (inclusive of n Luxury Noble Isle Toiletries Banquet night VAT per room, per night): n Wireless Bose Soundlink n Sunday morning will be the Classic Sea View: £60.00 installation of the officers. Classic Deluxe Sea View: £100.00 Conference spa offer For the 2018 Banquet weekend Feature Deluxe Sea View: The hotel offers a 20% discount on you will be required to book your £160.00 all spa treatments for the duration accommodation direct with King Suite: £200.00 of the event (Monday to Friday only the Grand Hotel Brighton, and excludes weekends and bank 97-99 King’s Road, Brighton, Grand Collection, holidays, subject to availability). East Sussex BN1 2FW. from £40.00 The booking form for the lunch To book your space, please (inclusive of VAT) and banquet will be available in ring 01273 224 300 (option per room, per night. due course. 1), quoting SAIF160318, the Terry event name and date. Tennens CONTINUED MEMBERSHIP OF THE IFD COLLEGE Members are obliged to provide for membership to continue from Administrator by 30 September 2017 evidence of 12 hours of continuing 1 November will be SAIF’s Education with your Membership payment of professional development (CPD) to Day on that date. A confirmed booking £30 for 2017/2018. continue their membership after the will count as evidence. If you are a Cert. FP, NAFD Diploma first year. Your membership of the IFD Membership will cease on 31 or BIFD Diploma holder and wish to (Independent Funeral Directors) College October if evidence of completion of apply to become a new member from demonstrates that you are actively 12 hours of Continuing Professional 1 November 2017, please contact the maintaining and developing your Development is not provided and you College Administrator below for details knowledge to perform to the highest should immediately cease using the of how to apply. standard within the profession. letters MIFDC after your name, remove If you have not started recording any references to membership of the If you have any questions, please your CPD, a form is available on the college from your website/paperwork call the IFD College website, which needs to be completed and return your certificate to the College Administrator, Corinne for continued membership from Administrator. Pengelly on 0345 230 1 November 2017. Please ensure that your completed 6777 or email her at The last qualifying CPD event CPD form is returned to the IFD College [email protected]

8 Bertie standing by the new 17th tee marker advertising R&P Everson Family Funeral Directors and Headon Lea Natural Burial Ground

Bertie’s stroke of genius to raise funds for charity Four rounds of golf in one day for cancer support

n 21 June, Bertie Beginning at 5am, Everson, 29, of Bertie completed all four Totland Bay on the rounds by 8.30pm on one Isle of Wight, took of the hottest days of the Oup the Longest Day Golf year. So far he has raised Challenge. He completed four £500 for the charity from rounds of golf in a single day sponsorship. at Freshwater Bay Golf Club Bertie, from R&P Everson to raise money for Macmillan Family Funeral Directors, Cancer Support, as part of said: “I would like to thank the charity’s nationwide everyone who supported fundraising event. my fundraising effort.”

Staff from J J Burgess & Sons helped the Independent to raise more than £300 for The Royal British Legion LARK IN THE PARK A London funeral director & Sons helped the has raised funds for The Independent to raise Royal British Legion’s more than £300 from the Poppy Appeal this month, day at London Colney getting involved with the Community Centre. local community’s Lark Justin Burgess later in the Park. presented a cheque to Staff from J J Burgess The Royal British Legion.

9 REPORTER

End of life The tank hearse charities merge Hospice UK and the National Council for Palliative Care (NCPC) – which leads the Dying Matters coalition – have completed their merger. Both organisations now come under the Hospice UK name. Dying Matters, a coalition of 30,000 members across England and Wales aiming to bring more openness to discussions around death, dying, bereavement and end of life planning, is set to continue after the merger. Ilora Finlay, Hospice UK Vice-President and outgoing NCPC chair, said: “By coming together, we will continue to provide a clear vision and an TANK HEARSE FUNERAL even stronger voice for end-of- Pepperdine Barrett Funeral has dealt with and the first life care everywhere, because Directors turned heads tank hearse funeral in the the most important person in in the streets of Chorlton- North West. end-of-life care is the person cum-Hardy, in Manchester, Frank said: “Alternative more with the life-limiting condition when the funeral cortege hearses and funeral and more of and their family. was followed by a tank vehicles are becoming these types of alternative “Dying Matters has opened hearse. John Barrett, who more and more hearses being used.” up a national conversation is the son of Frank Barrett, commonplace in today’s Pepperdine Barrett about death and dying. the Managing Director, society, and as funeral Funeral Directors, “The voice of the person was very surprised when directors we have to ensure incorporating R. will be strengthened and a local family requested that we carry out those Pepperdine & Sons Ltd, broadened through direct the tank hearse. It was wishes to ensure that these would like to thank communication with those certainly the first tank lasting memories will stay the staff at “Tanks providing care; together we are hearse funeral Pepperdine with our families forever. Alot” who are based in stronger as we take this vital Barrett Funeral Directors I am certain we will see Northamptonshire. work forward.” Driving families to Independents Golden Charter press while the text included advertising spearheads The advert encourages focuses on the benefits of use of local independent campaign to raise funeral plans – and why the funeral director reader’s local, independent profile of independent funeral director is the best funeral directors person to turn to for advice on planning ahead. ast month Golden All enquiries received Charter ran adverts will be passed to a local in the national independent funeral director, press with the aim who can then follow up with Lof generating funeral plan the potential plan holder enquiries for independent and will receive all benefits funeral directors. associated with making a Carried in the Daily sale if the individual chooses Express and the Sun, the to take out a plan. advert is part of Golden Results from the activity Charter’s efforts to use provider and Independents. are being monitored. If you its national reach to send The advert reflects the have any questions, please families directly to their current TV advertising speak to your local Golden local, independent funeral campaign featuring the Charter representative who director by highlighting the scene from the office of an will be happy to discuss this unique link between the plan independent funeral director, with you further.

10 New Gedling crematorium service of dedication

WORDS: ALAN JOSÉ FICCM, WESTERLEIGH GROUP AMBASSADOR Alan Jose, Westerleigh Ambassador, Kevin Pilkington, President ICCM, Paul Bowley, President SAIF, Cllr John Clark, Leader of Gedling Council, Kevin Browne, Manager, Cllr Gary fter a day of torrential rain the Gregory, Gedling Council and Richard Evans, Managing Director The Westerleigh Group previous day, Thursday 18 May saw the sun shine brightly in Simmons sang Ave Maria and Fields of have time to grieve and we must all be Nottinghamshire for the service Gold beautifully, her voice filling the chapel. grateful for a life lived and be able to reflect Aof dedication of the new Westerleigh Group In dedicating the crematorium, the on it at a funeral service no matter how Crematorium at Gedling. Right Reverend Porter gave a moving many or few people are in attendance. Kevin Browne, the Crematorium address, reflecting on his own work with Councillor Sandra Barnes, who has been Manager, welcomed the suffragan Bishop the bereaved over many years and the vital a great supporter of the new crematorium of Sherwood the Right Reverend Tony importance of treating all those who mourn project, thanked Westerleigh for their Porter, the Mayor of Gedling Borough with dignity and respect. investment in the area and said: “We are Council, Sandra Barnes, local funeral The Bishop reminded us all of how just so lucky to have this special place, directors and many other distinguished important the services that we in the burial because it is absolutely stunning and guests who had travelled from across the and cremation sector provide, and that he very tastefully done. We couldn’t ask for country to attend the service. was thankful for the professionalism of anything better.” Prayers and readings were led by the staff that work in this area, often not Richard Evans, Managing Director of representatives of local churches – Canon realising just how much difference we the Westerleigh Group, thanked the Bishop Phillip Ziomek, Roman Catholic; the Rev make to people’s lives by doing our jobs for his address, the Mayor for her support Ron Kenyon, United Reformed and the Rev well. He asked us all to ensure that we and that of her council colleagues over Moses Aygam, Methodist – and by Victoria remembered the two “Gs”: grieving and several years and everyone for attending Corder, a civil celebrant. Soloist Sarah gratitude. Families and individuals must the service.

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11 REPORTER COLLEAGUE REMEMBERED W Sherry & Sons team raises £3,000 from 40-mile cycling challenge in aid of hospice

taff and friends from W Sherry & Sons in West London took part in the recent 40-mile charity bike ride organised by Michael SSobell Hospice in Northwood and raised £3,000. The team took part in memory of their colleague Corrado Boscarelli who sadly passed away in March. They said he was wonderfully cared for by everyone at the Hospice. Ophelia Chambers-Henry, Events and Community Fundraising Manager at Michael Sobell Hospice, said: “We are so thrilled with the fantastic amount which was raised by the team at W Sherry & Sons. The hospice, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, relies heavily on charitable donations by local individuals and companies to keep up the high standard of support and care for its patients and their families in the Pictured are the team, including most difficult time of their lives. We are 16 staff who completed the very grateful to Neil Sherry and his staff challenge, with Neil and Brooke for their support.” Sherry presenting the cheque

12 Family-owned funeral home rededicated Alan Greenwood & Sons Funeral Directors of London Road, Kingston Upon Thames, has held a rededication of its recently refurbished chapel and premises. On Friday 23 June, a plaque was also unveiled in memory of Valerie Greenwood who sadly passed away this year. Pictured is Father David Chislett, St Luke’s Kingston; Judy Close, Community Manager; Father Julius Otoaye, St Pius X Church Norbiton; Julie Pickering Mayor of Kingston; Father Martin Hislop, St Luke’s Kingston; Alan Greenwood and Alison Crake, President of the National Association of Funeral Directors. Memorable ashes options for the ‘fourth ceremony of life’ n the past, families had relatively few choices when it came to dealing with cremation ashes. They were buried in a garden of remembrance, kept in an Iurn at home, or perhaps scattered at sea or over the deceased’s favourite place. Now, the options are much greater. You can’t go scattering ashes wherever you fancy, but you can choose everything from having them made part of a firework to being turned into jewellery. A growing number of businesses in the UK are offering services with ashes Scattering Ashes for a different kind of send-off. Scattering team of Richard Ashes is one leading website that people Martin, his wife can turn to for advice, ranging from Karen (centre) and football club policies to information from Hannah Cullum bodies such as the National Trust and the with one of their Environment Agency. Scattering Ashes offerings, a Viking has also produced a free leaflet that funeral longboat urn directors can give to their clients to help them make choices.* you celebrate birth with a christening, As a trustee of the Devon Guild of Richard Martin, the founder and marriage with a wedding and death with Craftsmen, Richard is a strong advocate Managing Director of Scattering Ashes, a funeral. The scattering ceremony is the of using craftspeople’s skills. He said: believes in a more celebratory approach final celebration of the whole life lived.” “We have developed a range of urns and to memorialisation. He said: “In the UK The Scattering Ashes site gives an keepsakes that hold ashes while being most people – approximately 75% – opt indication of the extensive range of completely discreet. They range from to be cremated rather than buried. Most options. There is dispersal of ashes by saggar-fired ceramics to stainless steel loved ones take the ashes home rather vintage plane or helium-filled balloon. garden sculptures. We have also created a than leave them to be scattered at You can have ashes placed in an ancient Viking longboat urn that can be set aflame, the crematoria.” burial chamber or on a memorial reef and a ‘Message in a Bottle’ which will take After that they may be confused at sea. Loved ones’ ashes can remain a small amount of ashes and let them about their choices. The average constantly with you in the form continue their travels by sea.” person is unlikely to know of ashes jewellery or memorial If loved ones’ choices in previous years where the scattering of ashes is pendants. were somewhat restricted, nowadays your allowed and what the rules are One of the most unusual options appear to be plentiful. on burial, far less the wide range requests received by Scattering of choices now available. Ashes was a papier-mâché * For copies of the Scattering Ashes leaflet, Richard said: “For us, this suitcase to hold the ashes of a please contact Richard Martin on 01392 is the fourth ceremony of life – person who had loved to travel. 581 012 or at: [email protected]

13 REPORTER RESULTS OF WEBINAR FEEDBACK Internet learning sessions on wide range of topics get excellent response from users

ince SAIF Business As a reminder, a Centre began the webinar is a seminar webinar series which takes place over in July 2016, the internet, so you can Smore than 200 people enjoy all the benefits of have booked places, with a training session from an average of 26 per any computer at home or session. The topics have at work. The sessions last ranged from dealing for one hour and are free with difficult families for members. to pensions, including A full list of upcoming several on different webinars will appear on aspects of marketing the SAIF website. Previous a funeral business. webinar recordings are There has been a available to download in great response to the the members’ area. online feedback, with SAIF will email 85% of people reporting invitations to all they found the webinars members ahead of each “excellent” or “good”, and webinar with a link to 98% would recommend register and join the the sessions to a colleague session. There are limited in the profession. A places so please make total of 82% found the sure you register as Funeral repatriation service webinars were “relevant soon as you can. Once and applicable to their registered, members will Guy Elliot Ltd, a SAIF commenting on his everyday work’’. receive a confirmation Associate Member, is an conscientious nature. Here are some email with a link to join independent UK-wide The company is able to comments from attendees: the webinar. Members funeral repatriation service repatriate deceased persons n “A really great way to will need a laptop, tablet based in Scotland or cremated remains by learn and chat to other or smartphone with It is solely owned and road and ferry throughout funeral directors – thank reliable internet access operated by Guy Elliot the UK, including the you and well done” as well as a set of who has 12 years’ full-time Scottish islands. n “I found the webinar very speakers or headphones experience in the funeral Guy said: “It is very useful and informative” to take part. profession. After graduating important to me that I strive n “Covered a lot of During the webinar, from the University of to provide the very best information in a short members will be able Aberdeen, Guy spent two service that I possibly can, space of time” to see the presentation years working as a support and I am very motivated to n “Being able to participate and hear the presenter worker for profoundly try to constantly improve.” while still in the office was speaking. They can also disabled adults and adults Guy is currently a a big bonus” ask questions throughout with learning difficulties. student at the Independent n “Helpful in assessing the session with the In 2005, Guy started Funeral Directors (IFD) my own business” live chat box function. his career in the funeral College and has attended n “It’s a great way to interact The webinar series will profession in Aberdeen, and many funeral profession without being distracted” resume in September in 2014 founded his funeral meetings this year. n “It’s a great way to learn with Sean Martin of C repatriation company. The You can contact Guy and discuss” Waterhouse & Sons. business was originally on 44 (0)7770 407 610, named Conscientiously email conscientiously@ Ltd, partly as a outlook.com or via Dates for your statement of how guyelliot diary: Webinars the repatriation funeraldirector@ company would outlook.com 13 SEPTEMBER operate, and partly due to Guy’s former Advertising feature 11 OCTOBER colleagues regularly Guy Elliot 8 NOVEMBER

14 Fifty years of trust Special anniversary as E Hill & Son takes new Norwood Classic Hearse and Rosedale limousine

Loyal Coleman Milne worked tirelessly to provide customers E Hill & Son have much needed services, not taken delivery of a Norwood limited to funerals. Edwin Classic Hearse and Rosedale would offer driving lessons limousine. The family-run and private vehicle hire, and funeral directors have been even chauffeured children trusting Coleman Milne to and from school. He was for their funeral fleet for 50 a much loved and respected years. Edwin Hill started the member of the community. company in 1960 after first Richard and Paula have training as a carpenter, and in taken the company from 1967 he took delivery of his strength to strength and first Coleman Milne cars – a expanded their team of Ford Zephyr and Zodiac. dedicated and qualified Edwin’s son Richard, who funeral directors. Over the now runs the company with years, E Hill & Son have his wife Paula, said: “The ensured that their fleet Zephyr and Zodiac were very is regularly updated to modern for their time.” Edwin maintain standards. was so proud of his first fleet The Norwood Classic of Fords that he arranged for Hearse allows comfort and photographs to be taken in a grace for the coffin bearers local showroom. with four large doors. With Edwin, along with his comfort as standard, the E Hill & Son took delivery of the wife Roslyn, established the Rosewood limousine offers new Norwood and Rosedale funeral director as a caring class-leading passenger pillar of the community; they space and leather upholstery.

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15 REPORTER

Best practice event on Billy’s is a infant loss The Foundation for Infant baby funeral provision story of evil Loss Training will be n Tim Morris, CEO: The hosting “Infant Loss: Institute for Cemetery Identifying best practice and Crematorium between hospitals, funeral Management: Legal – and it’s just directors and crematoria”. Issues The event on Monday n The Foundation for 18 September 2017 runs Infant Loss Training’s one of many, from 9am to 5pm at Funeral Director of the Birmingham Conference Year: Aaron Taylor: Edd and Events Centre at £95 Frost and Daughters, with refreshments, lunch Banbury too many and certificate included. n Jason Maiden, Chelsea The confirmed Funeral Directors and SAIF Chief Executive shares his knowledge speakers are: Natasha Bradshaw and work against human trafficking and n Anne Barber, Managing Superintendent & modern-day slavery in the UK Director: Civil Registrar Mortlake Ceremonies Celebrant Crematorium: Best WORDS: TERRY TENNENS Training practice between funeral n Peter Wyllie, FSBP: directors and crematoria Independent Celebrant n SANDS, which offers n 2008, I became a trustee n Roger Gale, Chief links to funeral of the Medaille Trust – a Executive: The Child directors and support charity set up by Catholic Funeral Charity Some exhibitor nuns to help the victims n Judith Dandy, Dandelion opportunities are still Iof human trafficking. So it Dreams: Setting up a available. is probably not surprising then that I have a reasonable knowledge of the issues around human trafficking and modern-day slavery. n The National Crime Agency What constantly surprises believes the number of me though is how little is slaves in the UK at any one known about the horrors of time exceeds 20,000. this evil, here in the UK, by the The Medaille Trust general public. So I would like now has nine safe houses to share a little of what I know. providing 106 beds and The Medaille story began support to women, men and with a vision to help people dependant children. Tailoring and end human trafficking. support packages to the needs A simple enough vision, a of the individual, the Medaille human vision, and one we Trust is working hard to help can all subscribe to whether these victims. we have a faith or not. To put this into real terms Annually, the National Crime listen to the story of Billy – Agency produces data about a young man they are individuals who have been assisting: identified as potential victims Billy came from a small of slavery in the UK. The most village in Romania. Since recent figures show: finishing school he had been n The top nationalities to working occasionally for cash be identified as potential in hand. He is very young victims in the UK are from and wanted to help support Albania, Vietnam and the his family by earning more UK itself money on a regular basis. He n In 2016, 3,085 potential was speaking to a friend one victims were identified day who told him about a good THE BOSS WAS A VERY BIG MAN. HE WAS ALWAYS SHOUTING. I DID NOT WANT TO MAKE HIM ANGRY BILLY

16 MEETING DATES FOR YOUR DIARY l Wednesday Meeting, Tunbridge Wells 20 September l Wednesday 1 November Essex Regional Meeting, Education Day, Leicester Chelmsford Tigers, Leicestershire l Wednesday 4 October l Wednesday 15 November Home Counties Regional Northern Ireland Regional Meeting, High Wycombe Meeting, Belfast l Tuesday 17 October l Friday 1 December South Coast Regional Wales Regional Meeting Meeting, Bournemouth and Christmas Dinner, l Wednesday 18 October Stradey Park Hotel & Kent/Sussex Regional Spa, Llanelli

Information on social media Readers are reminded that follow the magazine at with SAIFInsight.co.uk @SAIFInsightMag (twitter. growing in popularity, com/saifinsightmag). the magazine can now be With each issue now found on Twitter. available online from job in England working in a poor general health. He was The social media SAIFInsight.co.uk, Twitter car wash. His friend told him seen by a GP and interviewed channel brings the latest can keep you up to date that he would earn £40 a day. by the police; he bravely news from the funeral on when you can see the He told his friend he was very gave the police details of profession directly to full magazine, as well interested and wanted to go. where he was living and the Independents’ news feeds. as offering links to the Billy travelled to the UK in conditions. He gave details Funeral directors can latest stories. a minibus with other men and of his earnings and how he was told he would need to pay was recruited; it was then that £120 for the trip; on arrival he Billy came to the Medaille was told that this fee had been Trust for care, support and increased to £550. When in accommodation. Billy has the UK, his ‘boss’ told Billy only been free for three weeks ALLSOPS that he would have to work for and since that time he has £20 a day until the whole debt settled into the safe house of £550 was paid off. He was really well. The ALLSOPS website is... expected to work seven days Billy’s story is just one of per week. Billy was placed many, too many. We will only in a house with many other stop this evil if we start to act MOBILE FRIENDLY men who also worked for against it – one thing we need ‘The Boss’. to do is to examine if we, as Billy recalls the house individuals or organisations, COMPATIBLE being very dirty and he are in any way creating or WITH ALL TABLETS shared a bedroom with five sustaining the demand for others – just mattresses on the services that use slave & SMARTPHONES the floor. He was ordered to labour. We need to examine pay £100 per week in rent, our purchasing patterns as leaving just £40 per week for individuals and our supply EASY TO USE food and other expenses. As chains as organisations. soon as Billy arrived into the The other thing we can do UK he had his ID card taken is report anything we see to the from him. Billy said he was police – emergency phone on very scared of ‘The Boss’: “He 999 or if time allows on 101. If was a very big man. He was confidentiality is appropriate always shouting at the others call Crimestoppers on 0800 and I did not want to make 555 111. him angry.” After two months the For advice or information on police raided the car wash the Medaille Trust contact: where he was working. He The Medaille Trust, c/o For further informa�on and six others were found Caritas Diocese of Salford, to be victims of modern Cathedral Centre, 3 Ford Street, Please call us on 01903 213991 slavery. Billy’s appearance Salford M3 6DP, by emailing or visit www.allsops.net was described as looking [email protected]. malnourished, scared and in uk or calling 0161 817 2260. Manufacturers and suppliers of quality products to the discerning Funeral Director

17 SAIF PRESIDENT

Our profession must move with the times

Across the UK, we need to open our doors and explain what we have to offer families

WORDS: PAUL BOWLEY

nother month has quickly Above: Paul was at Haydock on 20 June where independent family-owned funeral passed and things are meets Philip 19 members, five associate members director, and he takes great pride slowing down a little as Norris and Golden Charter representatives in what he does not only for his we approach the holiday were present. The second one, on business but also for the community, season. Top right: 21 June in Birmingham at Mortons and his premises are to an excellent On 15 June, I flew to Andrew Smith Funeral Directors, attracted 14 standard throughout. Glasgow and was driven and Paul members, nine associate members On 4 July, Davina and I to Inverness by Gavin and Golden Charter representatives. travelled to Stratford-upon-Avon AHenshelwood, Scottish SAIF On our way to Birmingham we representing SAIF at the CBCE Secretary, for a SAIF Executive stopped at SAIF member Fred AGM Banquet. meeting followed by a regional Hamer, where we were shown meeting in the evening. around by General Manager Philip Experience Terry Tennens, SAIF Chief Norris, and Andrew Smith Funeral As I travel up and down the country, Executive, and I attended two Services in Macclesfield. I hope to pass on some of my 37 regional meetings. The first one Andrew is Macclesfield’s only years of experience in the funeral

18 CHARITY: BHF

This year, SAIF will be supporting British Heart Foundation (BHF) as President Paul Bowley’s charity. The BHF has a number of planned events during the year. Calendar events:

August – Office Olympics

September – Bag It. Beat It.

October – Halloween Dress-Up

profession to the new generation Charter plans. One way forward is of funeral directors. And as those to give talks to your local societies next generations take over family such as the WI, Rotary, Age UK, etc; November – Nation of Lifesavers businesses, changes are put in place, also, why not speak to your local and in most cases, are necessary shopping centre manager to find to survive. Our profession is ever out if you can have a stand for the changing and we must change with day to promote your pre-paid plans? the times. More and more families are now Nowadays, there are so many going online to find the local funeral more options when arranging a directors and to compare them. A December – Quizmas Party funeral. We need to open our doors good website, therefore, with all and give talks on what we do and the information easily accessible what happens from the time of is paramount. death to the time of service. Scotland is currently going British Heart Foundation (BHF) How to bank the through regulation and licensing, My charity is the BHF – my life was funds you raise: I am sure England and Wales will saved by the surgeons at the Royal Donate to Paul’s JustGiving or Virgin follow. I personally welcome it Sussex County Hospital in Brighton Money accounts: and would encourage all funeral so I cannot think of a better charity n www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ businesses to put their staff through to support. Paul-Bowley training with the IFD College. SAIF If anyone would like to support n http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ and the NAFD are working together me and the BHF, then please go to team/saifpresidentcharity on a joint code of practice which the SAIF website where you can is a positive way forward for the donate online. This would be very To support Paul’s charity: Independents. much appreciated. None of us know n Visit Paul’s VirginGiveMoney Funeral poverty is always a what is ahead and hope you will webpage to donate directly at talking point, as is how it is affecting never need the service (I was one of http://bit.ly/2rkTQwr the profession with bad debt. Many those). However, the more we can n Contact SAIF Business funeral directors now ask for the raise, the better chance we have of Centre on 0345 230 6777 disbursements or 50% deposit to be saving more lives. n Make a cheque payable paid in advance. I believe we will If anyone is planning a to SAIF Charity Account get to the point where full payment fundraising event and they wish to n Donate electronically, using will be asked for in advance. donate please let me know. account number 10224793 Pre-paid plans are no doubt and sort code 60 04 24 our future business and you need Paul Bowley to be active in promoting Golden SAIF National President

19 REPORTER

INDEPENDENTS SAVING TIME AND PAPERWORK BY AUTO-ACCEPTING PLANS

Independents are signing up to take do this, and the big improvement for us made automatic, that is easily done. advantage of automatic allocations, was the time it saves. The acceptance On the other hand, auto-accepting saving time and paperwork and helping of allocations runs very smoothly for us can be expanded to include other enhance potential plan volumes. now as a direct result.” Golden Charter services if you wish. As products evolve, Golden Charter is The primary benefits are: ■■ Selecting the specifics: you can contacting funeral directors to confirm ■■ Time saved: auto-accepting specific choose which distance to auto- the renewal of auto-accept agreements, plan types that you would always accept within, or opt specific and the number confirming has been accept means you do not need to go postcodes in and out steadily rising. Independents can through the several calls it typically ■■ Never miss an allocation: Golden also get in touch with Golden Charter takes to manually accept a plan, Charter will continue to contact directly to sign up to auto-accept plans freeing your time and providing you manually for plans outside the that work for you. scope for more plans to be offered criteria you specify, so opting in will Helen Wathall, of auto-accepting ■■ Full flexibility: with a range of plan not lead to any lost allocations funeral director G Wathall & Son, said: types offered by Golden Charter, it is “When the automatic allocation of plans entirely up to you how few or many To learn more about auto-accepting was introduced by Golden Charter, we of these you automatically allocate some plans, simply contact your were quick to take the opportunity to – if you only want one kind of plan local Golden Charter representative. Getting help with data protection regulations WORDS: ALISON WILSON, DIRECTOR OF RISK AND COMPLIANCE, GOLDEN CHARTER Data Protection Directive, the new law increases Golden Charter plan holders enshrined in UK law by the responsibility of Data in particular. ver the coming the Data Protection Act Processors (currently It will remain the months, you 1998 (DPA), regulating the the position of funeral responsibility of each may well see the processing of personal directors) so that being funeral director to ensure letters ‘GDPR’ data. The existing rights a Data Processor is no they are compliant with the Oappearing in the news of individuals to access longer a comparatively requirements of GDPR. as we move towards the their own personal data, to easy ride from a Golden Charter will be May 2018 deadline for its object to direct marketing compliance perspective to undertaking a programme implementation. What does and to rectify inaccurate that of the Data Controller. of awareness training, GDPR mean? It is the General data are all contained in For funeral directors, this education and assistance for Data Protection Regulations the GDPR. means that they must be funeral directors including: approved by the European aware of and comply with ■■ GDPR ’masterclasses’ Union on 25 May 2016 and KEY ISSUES FOR the GDPR’s provisions for funeral directors coming into force on 25 FUNERAL DIRECTORS for Data Controllers. supported by SAIFCharter May 2018, replacing the ■■ Consent: in order to For Golden Charter, it is ■■ Compliant opt-in EU Directive on which the continue to market to at- necessary the company statements for use by UK’s Data Protection Act need families and previous can demonstrate that funeral directors in their 1998 is based. Regardless pre-need enquirers, funeral directors are marketing literature to of the detailed outcome of funeral directors will aware of their obligations enable access to their at- Brexit, the guidance from the need to ensure there is a regarding planholders’ need databases Information Commissioner’s compliant ‘explicit opt-in’ data. ■■ Enhanced funeral director Office (ICO) is that the UK in place for each customer. terms and conditions, should be aiming to adhere Funeral directors will need A presentation of GDPR including new GDPR to the terms of GDPR. to obtain the explicit opt-in requirements was presented provisions that all The regulations introduce consent of the individuals to the SAIFCharter funeral directors agree more stringent and in order to contact the Executive in June to adhere to in selling prescriptive data protection families at a later date 2017, which or accepting Golden compliance challenges to market further highlighted the opt- Charter funeral plans for organisations. Non- services. Golden in issues and the ■■ GDPR specific compliance with GDPR can Charter will be able responsibilities information to be result in fines of up to 4% to provide compliant and liabilities included in the funeral of global annual revenue or consent statements for funeral director guidelines €20 million. for use by funeral directors in ■■ GDPR training for directors on handling Regional Sales Managers THE REGULATIONS their marketing customer data in to ensure they are ■■ GDPR retains the core literature. general delivering a consistent rules and principles of the ■■ Data Processors: Alison Wilson and that of message in the field.

20 NEW MEMBERS

Quantock Funeral Services MEMBERSHIP UPDATE (Branch Office) NEW MEMBERS’ Yeomans APPLICATIONS FULL MEMBERSHIP PENDING Eastcombe Bishops Lydeard, Taunton SAIF members are encouraged to Ms S Jones/Mr Adrian Clarke Somerset Full Circle Funerals TA4 3HU comment on new applications where 114 Otley Road, Guiseley they see a potential problem with the West Yorkshire Mr R Hickton company applying. Currently we print the LS20 8LZ Mark Roy Timmins Funeral Director Ltd applicants’ details in SAIFInsight and if 36-38 Windmill Hill Mr C Mottram/Mr R Mottram/ Colley Gate, Halesowen any SAIF member knows a reason that Ms A Mottram B63 2BZ would prevent membership being granted, C W Mottram Funeral Services Ltd they’re asked to contact SAIF Business The Conifers Mr R Mustoe Centre within four weeks of SAIFInsight Grassy Green Lane, Audley Porthcawl Funeral Services Stoke on Trent 75 New Road publishing. ST7 8JB Porthcawl, Bridgend Due to the difference in time from when Mid Glamorgan an application is received to the publication Mr G Burdett/Ms G Burdett CF36 5DH G Burdett Funeral Services Ltd date of SAIFInsight, applications can be 6 Buxton Road ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP delayed. From September 2017, to speed up High Lane, Stockport PENDING the process, the procedure will be: SK6 8BH ■■ Application is received at SAIF Mr S Cousins/Mr A Briggs Business Centre Mrs J Dandy Brahms Electric Vehicles Ltd Dandelion Farewells Limited Moulton Industrial Unit 2 ■■ The applicant’s details are posted Warren Court Chelveston Road on the members’ secure area of the Guildford Road, Bucks Green Higham Ferrers website giving the deadline West Sussex Northamptonshire RH12 3JJ NN10 8HN for responses (four weeks from the posting) M S White/Ms M Dolega FULL MEMBER NEW BRANCH ■■ Notification about a new application will Country Funerals be posted on the website’s news area 1 Sponne House Centre Andy Free Independent ■■ To check the application: Log in to the Towcester Family Funeral Director Northamptonshire 32 London Road members’ area, select ‘membership NN12 6BY Wymondham pending’ from the left-hand menu, Norfolk and check the applicant’s details and Mr P Forrest NR18 9JD E H Owen Funeral Directors Ltd the date by which responses must be 87 Whitchurch Road ASSOCIATES NOT RENEWED received. Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY1 4EE Mr D McGowan/Ms C Rooney/ If you’d like to make a comment, please Mr T Corcoran ACCEPTANCE INTO D J MacNeice & Co Ltd contact Administration Manager Claire FULL MEMBERSHIP 37A Barrow Road Day with substantiated evidence against Glasnevin Industrial Estate the applicant to arrive no later than the Mr M Rothman Dublin 11 Spire Funeral Service date shown, either: ■■ 95 Derby Road FULL MEMBER CHANGE By email to [email protected] Chesterfield, Derbyshire OF DETAILS/ADDRESS ■■ Or by post: SAIF Business Centre, S40 2ER 3 Bullfields, Sawbridgeworth, New Address: Hertfordshire CM21 9DB Mr N Scully/Mr L Solomon/Ms P Hall Peter Smith & Son Funeral Directors Ltd Lilies Funeral Directors 135 Burwell Drive New applicants will still be published in 10 Chester Road, Sutton Coldfield Witney SAIFInsight but the deadline for responses West Midlands Oxfordshire will be the dates given on the website. B73 5DA OX28 5LP Previously 54 Newland, Witney Mr Darren Miles/Mrs Louise Cox Oaklands Funeral Service Note: Should any SAIF member have LETTER 4 The Ridgeway, Oliver Whitby Road any known reason which would prevent Chichester membership being granted, please PO19 3LA contact the SAIF Business Centre, in Dear Sir, writing, with substantiated evidence Mrs M Doyle against the said application to be Urwins Undertakers Ltd received at SAIF Business Centre by May I, on behalf of my whole family, 5 Rough Road, Kingstanding no later than 1 September 2017. Birmingham express our appreciation and sincere B44 9UP thanks for the exceptional and outstanding way in which Mr Stewart Urwins Undertakers Ltd Treharne and staff of E. C. Thomas (Branch Office) 214 Hawthorn Road, Kingstanding and Sons conducted our son’s funeral Birmingham arrangements. B44 8PP Our family wish to convey to you our grateful thanks for the outstanding Urwins Undertakers Ltd To join SAIF and enjoy the (Branch Office) benefits of membership, please service your member provided at such a 29 Churchill Parade contact: Claire Day difficult time. Sutton Coldfield Administration Manager Please find a copy of my personal B75 7LD Tel: 0345 230 6777 thanks to E. C. Thomas and Sons Mrs C Foster (Local Number) enclosed. Quantock Funeral Services Ltd or 01279 726 777 69 Staplegrove Road, Taunton Fax: 01279 726 300 Yours faithfully, Somerset TA1 1DG Email: [email protected] Llewellyn Rogers & Family

21 INTERVIEW

22 INTERVIEW BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS

The first Inspector of Funeral Directors in Scotland stresses the benefits of listening, participation and collaboration

WORDS: COLIN CARDWELL / PHOTOS: MARK JACKSON

he word “unique” an ideal opportunity to discuss ensure that we are working to busiest in Scotland, and the 42 – like sterling – has and explore areas where change share best practice and work burial grounds in Edinburgh.” been somewhat could benefit the sector.” collaboratively can only be While looking forward, devalued. So when SAIF and the NAFD concur, to the good. The profession she is quick to recognise that Natalie McKail says saying in April that: “We believe is engaging in its own debate funeral directors have served she has taken on a appointing an Inspector of over self-improvement. And the community well for many unique and pivotal Funeral Directors is in the whether that is propagated by years. “The role of Inspector role in Scotland she’s public interest, and believe my appointment or an internal has not been introduced Tbeing refreshingly accurate. Natalie’s appointment will desire for those improvements, because there are any specific, The job, Inspector of Funeral help keep standards high if it ultimately benefits the identifiable concerns. With any Directors in Scotland, is the very in the profession, as well as customer then that can only be sector, though, you can learn first of its kind in the country strengthen public confidence, a positive thing.” lessons and improve. Among – and the UK – and she was and we look forward to forming Accentuating the positive the key areas of my remit are to appointed to it in April by the a close working relationship.” is a recurring theme. Coming ensure best practice – and I’ve Scottish Government for a two- The two organisations from a regulatory background, seen evidence that many funeral year term, during which she also signed a joint agreement her closest alignment with the directors already share that will consider potential that sets out a series of profession resulted from her – but it’s also about supporting regulation and a possible guiding principles for both to being appointed by Edinburgh and complementing that. And funeral licensing regime. follow in the development of City Council to lead the where people are showing “I’ve made contact with a regulations. This was submitted Mortonhall Improvement innovation and enterprise it’s number of key stakeholders to the Scottish Government Programme. “I spent two years about creating an environment such as SAIF and the NAFD to as a formal commitment to working with the affected that allows that to flourish.” find out what they would like work with Scottish Ministers parents and helping to repair This is a busy time for the to discuss, and I’m arranging to develop regulation that will the breakdown in trust, taking funeral directors’ profession: to make introductory visits to benefit bereaved people. on operational responsibility responses are soon expected funeral directors,” she says. Which is good news for for the crematorium and the giving views on a consultation Her first impressions of the Ms McKail. “Any efforts to mortuary, which is one of the based on the Burial and sector have been profoundly Cremation (Scotland) Act 2016 positive. “I’ve been very on draft regulations made pleased to have been warmly IT IS ABOUT CREATING under the act. The results welcomed into the role and would certainly impact on have received several contacts AN ENVIRONMENT THAT Ms McKail’s role, though she from independent funeral ALLOWS INNOVATION says it’s too early to speculate. directors and people who “At the moment I’m involved are part of the representative AND ENTERPRISE TO in voluntary visits but there are organisations saying that this is FLOURISH inspection powers proposed

23 A career shaped by regulatory responsibilities Natalie McKail is a qualified positions, including Environmental Health Executive, Dame Sue Bruce. and trained Environmental leading teams responsible function which undertook She also had responsibility for Health Officer, starting her for the introduction of health and safety and food a range of services, including career in public service licensing of Houses in safety inspections throughout Mortonhall crematorium, more than 20 years Multiple Occupation, Edinburgh. She was then the city mortuary and ago at Aberdeenshire Landlord Registration, asked to lead the Mortonhall citywide burial grounds. She Council. On joining Licensing Standards. Improvement Programme on was appointed in April as City of Edinburgh Afterwards she publication of the Dame Elish Scotland’s first Inspector of Council in 1998, became responsible, Angiolini report on infant Funeral Directors by Public she held a range as a Senior cremation practices, and Health Minister Aileen of management Manager, for the reported directly to the Chief Campbell.

and proposals to review the diverse range of sizes and safety matters, where you listening, participation and documentation. If these were business models represented in could have a large multinational collaboration. “I want people to be agreed there would then be the independent funeral director financial services company and to know that they have the an enactment period but we first sector is one that Ms McKail is a one-person operation but look opportunity to shape and need to see what the feedback is comfortable with. “I think back for the same outcome – where influence the future of the sector. from that consultation.” to parts of my career, including people were safe at work or in In some cases, the business has The prospect of dealing with the regulation of health and the service of that employer. been in the family for many years “It’s all about clarity on the and I understand people have outcome that you are trying a vested interest in what that to achieve. And there must future holds.” be room for creativity and The challenges she identifies innovation, as funeral directors, include harnessing the ongoing as in all other sectors, have to debate and ensuring that as be able to respond to customers’ many funeral directors as expectations and needs.” possible take part in it. “As As well as positive input, she with any change there are early concedes that there will be some adopters, but I want to hear all natural concerns regarding the the voices, including those of prospect of future regulation. people who may have concerns “I absolutely acknowledge or are reticent about change.” that there are questions The other is purely a around matters of potential logistical one. “With some 800 We’ve revolutionised the Fingerprint memorial concern: what would regulation funeral directors in Scotland, I market with our simple scanning process!! mean for the sector, how would don’t think I’ll manage to get to that operate in practical terms, see them all by Christmas this *Over 150 funeral directors nationally on board in 3 months what the cost impact might be year,” she laughs. Don’t discount *Over 4,500 prints taken in fi rst 3 months … so it’s important for me to how many she will see: as an listen from the outset but I’m enthusiast for the great Scottish *No Ink, No Putty, No messing encouraged by the fact that I’ve outdoors, whether cycling or *Effortless fi ngerprint capturing via our digital scanner already had several approaches Munro bagging, she’s used to *Keepsakes ready for your families in just 2/3 weeks for face-to-face meetings. daunting prospects and will put *Low cost startup options We’re not looking for a one a lot of energy into tackling a size fits all solution; there will truly unique task. l *100% markup for you across our entire range be different ways of delivering * The most affordable keepsakes in the market with those services.” For more information, contact prices starting at just £20RRP She stresses the words [email protected] *We only wholesale to the funeral profession Contact Legacy Expressions for a video demo of the scanner in action, and to see how we can help your funeral home I WANT PEOPLE TO KNOW THEY HAVE THE Freephone: 0800 3689233 Email: [email protected] OPPORTUNITY TO SHAPE www.legacyexpressions.co.uk AND INFLUENCE THE FUTURE OF THE SECTOR

24 25 FEATURE THE OXLEY WAY IN ESSEX For 160 years and six generations, one staunchly independent family-run business of funeral directors and builders has been at the heart of its local community

en years before railways on coffin making and carrying out reached the seaside town associated funerals, while Philip of Walton-on-the-Naze on George became more active in the Essex’s north-east coast, building and carpentry side of the a family firm, initially business. In 1901, following his father’s specialising in carpentry, death, Philip George amalgamated the established some very strong firm’s operations under the heading foundations. One hundred P G Oxley Builders and Undertakers. and sixty years later the Bruce, the current Phil Oxley’s funeral director and building son, outlined the next stage of the contractor P G Oxley is still company’s development: “Although going strong. Philip George had two sons, neither of It is not unusual for a funeral directing them entered the business. The eldest, business to have its roots in a building Albert, emigrated to North America Tfirm. However, it is rare to see the two and his brother Willie, after serving professions still operating side by side, in France during the First World War, as is the case with this sixth-generation joined a French road contracting firm family business. that undertook road-building contracts Current Managing Director Philip in the north of England.” (Phil) Oxley explained the history: “In In 1927, due to his father’s advancing the early 1830s Philip Oxley – my great, years, Willie returned home to run P G great grandfather – worked as a pattern Oxley. In 1934, a fourth generation was maker for the Warner Bell Iron Foundry introduced into the firm in the shape of in the town. He had nurtured the ambition Robert Oxley (one of Albert’s four sons to become the village carpenter, allowing born in the United States). He followed himself greater and more varied use of the family pattern by learning a trade on for several years before becoming more his woodworking skills and to become his the building side before becoming more involved on the funeral side of the own master.” involved in the funeral activities. He business. In 1972, his sister Julie joined In 1857, he left the Bell Foundry and subsequently joined the army in 1939 and the company becoming one of Essex’s first started in business for himself. Notably, in served in occupied Norway as part of the qualified female funeral directors. the Essex Gazetteer of the same year Philip new commando units being developed by In 1979, P G Oxley acquired the business Oxley is listed as the village carpenter the British until returning to the business and premises of another funeral director for Walton-on-the-Naze, making, among in 1946. During this period, in 1943, business, W Green & Sons of Frinton- other things, coffins. Philip George passed away. on-Sea. The family aspect One hundred years after the of the business was business had begun, P G Oxley Overture enhanced when Philip’s was made a limited company. The firm’s success was noted by others and son, Philip George, also Robert became a director along in 1988 there was an unwelcome overture left the Bell Foundry with Willie and Willie’s French from a national chain. “They offered us a several years later to join wife, Marie. significant sum, but it really wasn’t about his father’s firm. Willie died in 1960 and the money,” recalled Phil. “They only wanted direction of the company was the funeral interests and the family name. It Distinct paths assumed by Robert, who was wasn’t something we wanted to entertain. Around this time the joined by his son, the current Generations of family work ending up as business’ activities began Phil Oxley, in 1965. part of a faceless PLC wasn’t for us.” to follow two distinct Phil trained as a carpenter In 1991, the sixth generation of the and worked “on the tools” paths. Philip concentrated Robert Oxley family joined the business when Bruce

26 Philip George and grandson Robert Oxley

The current management team (l-r) Bruce Oxley, his father Phil Oxley, and Marcus Hayward

Above: the 1960 funeral of Willy James Oxley (pictured below) Left: a funeral from the late 1800s Right: the old P G Oxley offices

started work with his father. He has business moved from old offices next to the Bruce agreed: “I could be here to see been involved with both sides of the firm firm’s building yard to newly refurbished the firm’s 200th anniversary. I’d only but has concentrated on developing the premises alongside the existing address be just over 80 years old but wouldn’t building and refurbishment works aspect in the High Street at Walton – a perfect imagine being involved day to day. I have of the business. way to celebrate the company’s 150th two daughters, two brothers, a sister and Bruce explained: “For many years the anniversary. there are over a dozen grandchildren in firm worked as a general builder and had Sadly, Robert Oxley passed away in the family. I’m confident there will be an an excellent reputation for that type of 2008 and did not get to see the latest Oxley at the helm into 2057 and beyond.” l work. However, after the last downturn it expansion of the funeral business – the became evident that there were too many opening of a new office, chapel of rest people chasing the same type of work.” and arrangement rooms in Station Road, The awarding of two large renovation Clacton in 2015. projects proved a turning point. “We had The business continues under the RNLI SUPPORT a good mix of very experienced skilled guidance of Phil and Bruce. Julie remains The Oxley family has long-standing workers, and some new younger blood. a director in her retirement, with her links with the Royal National The two renovation projects were a huge son Robert working with Bruce on the Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) in success and even won a building award. building side of the company. Some of Walton-on-the-Naze. One of the We used the opportunity to pass on skills Phil’s grandchildren have had summer jobs family has served as the operational and knowledge from the older guys and in the business while studying at college manager of the local lifeboat station develop new relationships with specialist and university. since 1930. Meanwhile, two of Phil's contractors. Those relationships have He said: “I believe this is a business that sons have been shore helpers and helped us obtain similar work and we have Bruce will develop further in the future, currently volunteer as the lifeboat built on that foundation.” but it’s also our family’s heritage. I’d like station press officer and chairman. Ten years ago the funeral side of the to think it will continue in family hands.”

27 Update NEWS FROM KINDRED ASSOCIATIONS

CREMATION AND BURIAL COMMUNICATION AND EDUCATION EVENT 2017 he CBCE event was held at the some marvellous speakers and a good Stratford Manor Hotel from exhibition, probably one of the best that the 3 to 5 July. The Federation I’ve been to.” A huge thank you goes to of Burial and Cremation our excellent speakers, who included TAuthorities and the Cremation Society Judith Bernstein from the Ministry of of Great Britain would like to say a huge Justice, who gave a presentation on the chaired by Harvey Thomas CBE. The thank you to all our sponsors, exhibitors latest updates on coroner, burial and willing participants were Amanda and delegates who contributed cremation law and policy; Dr Heather Woodward (BIE), Alan Puxley (BIFD), significantly to this excellent event. Conway, who provided us with advice John Proffitt (FBCA) and Alison Crake It was great to meet both old on feuding families and legal rights (NAFD). Among the topics debated and new delegates and this over funeral arrangements; were the siting of crematoria and year we are pleased to say that Baroness Finlay of Llandaff, the continuing value of the 50 yard attendance figures exceeded who has chaired the All-Party and 200-yard rule, direct cremation, all expectations, resulting in Parliamentary Group on Dying Resomation, the recycling of poly us having to use neighbouring Well; Gareth Brown from the urns and digital signatures on hotel facilities to accommodate Scottish Government’s Health cremation forms. this year’s attendees. The Protection and Public Health Stratford Manor Hotel lived up to all exhibition was also a sell-out, with Reform department who gave us our expectations and our sincere thanks 42 stands exhibiting a wide range of a detailed insight into the Burial and go to the team there for ensuing the 2017 products to interest our delegates. Cremation (Scotland) Act 2016, to name CBCE Event will be one to remember. The feedback from the attendees was just a few. exceptional, with comments such as: “A Tuesday afternoon was concluded BY RICK POWELL SECRETARY AND EXECUTIVE OFFICER great event, which was excellent, with with the legendary “Presidents’ Panel” FEDERATION OF BURIAL AND CREMATION AUTHORITIES

A COMMUNITY SHATTERED BY TRAGEDY NE hundred years ago, on them children. It is known that one of 13 June 1917, just over the hill the children was swimming in nearby from where I am sitting in my baths, when the explosion blew in office, a terrible tragedy took the buildings. Oplace at a rubber and chemical factory The youngest victim was a four- in Ashton Under Lyne, with a two-mile year-old girl called Sarah Ann Kearns, blast radius. It was situated in a place who was walking home from St Peters surrounded by houses, schools and Primary School when the explosion swimming baths and made about 2,000 happened. In total, seven children from people homeless. Local railway workers St Peters School died. were among those killed instantly, and On Sunday 17 June, a mass funeral Horse-drawn hearses the train lines were bent from the force took place for the majority of those of the explosion. killed, with horse-drawn hearses The factory was helping the war lined up in front of Ashton Town Today, a brass effort by making TNT, and in 1917 Hall where a stage was erected plaque can be found it was able to produce 25 tons of for the clergy to stand with the inside St. Peters the explosive per week. Because Manchester Regiment and School for the seven the tragedy was covered by Salvation Army Brass Bands. pupils who died, and the Official Secrets Act, we After the service, the brass a sculpture in Henry may never know why the bands led the procession to Square near explosion happened, although Dukinfield Cemetery followed to where the old it is thought experiments were taking by town officials, council members baths were situated, place with TNT inside the factory. and clergy. which was created From the explosion, 120 people were Behind the large cortege of hearses by Paul Margetts. hospitalised with a further 400 people a crowd of 250,000 followed, but at

receiving minor injuries from shattering the cemetery gates only the family BY CLIVE PEARSON glass in their homes. members were allowed in to attend IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT BRITISH INSTITUTE OF A total of 43 people died, nine of the burials. FUNERAL DIRECTORS

28 DR BILL ARE YOU STILL ENGAGED? In our culture of increasing individualism, it is critical to actively create and maintain relationships within your community

WORDS: DR BILL WEBSTER

re you still engaged, or have you to personal commitment or partnership, broken off the engagement? I am which in a business is seen in working not referring to anyone’s marital practices that support a two-way approach status here, so let me explain. between company and client, employer On my recent visit to the UK, and employee. When a new client walks I took the train from my home through the door, a professional business town in Scotland to London. I relationship commences. But due to was looking forward to enjoying business pressures and other things Athe scenery along the journey, eagerly dominating our attention, the continuous looking to see the famous Carnoustie Golf development of this relationship can Course, the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, sometimes falter and not be addressed. the Angel of the North, and many other Engagement means the continuous highlights along the way. development of an emotional relationship. Across the table from me was a young People today in my view want for a sense chap, early twenties or whatever, totally of belonging; feeling part of something engrossed in his mobile phone, texting and gaining something in return, whether and checking stuff out from the time he increased trust, confidence, knowledge, got on the train until he got off. He didn’t social media, there is a deeper desire to be understanding or commitment. True glance up or see a single thing along the connected, to be in touch with the world engagement is not so much an action as journey. He didn’t say a solitary word to around us, while somehow not really an attitude; making it about them, not me or anyone else – his whole attention engaging with it. just about you; about their needs, not was focused on his phone. Twenty-five years ago, the concept of your sales. I thought “what a shame!” He missed out The Experience Economy came to the fore The days of sitting at the office waiting on so much that was there to be enjoyed. in business. Author James Gilmore said: on a call are gone. If you don’t believe I couldn’t help reflect on the statement, “The Service Economy is peaking. A new, me, how’s it working for you? With quoted by Pirates of the Caribbean emerging economy is coming to the fore; more competition in the market, and the character Captain Jack Sparrow: “It’s not one based on a distinct kind of economic transient nature of families today, it is the destination so much as the journey.” output... experiences. Goods and services critical to actively create and maintain In the news coverage of a recent terror are no longer enough.” relationships within your community. attack, I saw something I could hardly In today’s changing economic climate These days, interacting regularly with your believe. I reviewed the video numerous and communication environment, constituency is what will build your brand times to make sure it had actually consumer expectations around dying and your business. happened. One of the victims, who had matters, death care, funerals and aftercare What I have found in my own work been struck by a vehicle, lay dead or dying have again changed. To be successful, we is that while some customer needs can on the road. Someone ran up and, rather need to be both focused and intentional be complex, the majority of people just than trying to assist or comfort, simply in our efforts to serve families during all appreciate sincere actions. took a few pictures with their phone, and phases of that circle of service, before, If you would like to “engage” with then ran off to another situation to get during and after a death. Grief Journey to assist with your aftercare more. I was shocked, yet somehow, sadly, I believe what people are looking needs, “ring’ Linda Jones at 0333 8000 not surprised. Media today almost gives us for these days is best described as 630. Your “proposal” will be met with a the impression we are spectators at such “engagement”. positive “I do!” l events, somehow not directly involved. In our culture of increasing Some might say: “Well, that is modern individualism, there is a real danger Dr Bill Webster is the author of numerous technology and communication,” and that of carrying this into our business and books and resources for grieving people. may be the case. But I cannot escape the personal relationships. He has some innovative resources which conviction that people really want more. When we think of the traditional funeral directors and professionals can In the seemingly self-absorbed world of meaning of engagement, our minds go make available to their clients as part of an after-care programme. Check out Dr Bill’s resources at his website, www.griefjourney.com THESE DAYS, INTERACTING Contact: Linda D Jones, Executive Director of Resources, WITH YOUR CONSTITUENCY IS Grief Journey T: 0333 8000 630 WHAT WILL BUILD YOUR BRAND E: [email protected] Dr Bill Webster www.griefjourney.co.uk

Dr Webster 29

EDUCATION & TRAINING EDUCATION DAY 2017 The annual event brings together funeral professionals and specialists, allowing SAIF members to keep up to date with issues and gain ideas for best practice for their own funeral business

he speakers for 2017’s Other key speakers on the day will include: Exhibition stands have been confirmed Education Day have all been ■■ Kevin Sinclair who will be giving from the following companies: confirmed and a very full day an update on the latest embalming ■■ Smart Media Marketing has now been set. The event technique challenges (aFuneralnotice) Tis exceptional value for money and ■■ Gavin Faber from Irwin Mitchell will ■■ Colourful Coffins with current concerns and topics being give an overview of how to handle ■■ Funeralbooker Ltd covered, this really is a day that you conflict with families ■■ I-Netco Ltd don’t want to miss. ■■ Brian Hart will provide a session on ■■ Ghyll House Publishing cyber fraud (t/a Polstead Press) ■■ Fatima Uzzaman from the ■■ Guy Elliott Department for Work & Pensions will (Funeral Repatriation) SAIF has be providing an update on Social ■■ Legacy / Life Expressions announced the Fund Payments ■■ MuchLoved Charitable Trust main guest speaker for ■■ Robert Rowntree who will be ■■ National Repatriation this year’s Education Day discussing international disaster ■■ Secure Haven Ltd will be Cheryl Paris, from recovery by the funeral director. the Scottish Government’s If you are a SAIF Associate Member and Burial and Cremation Team, Students from the IFD College, who have not yet booked your space, please who will talk about the have successfully completed various ensure you contact the SAIF Business courses, will be receiving their well- Centre soon to ensure availability. regulation of funeral earned certificates from the IFD directors. For non-associates who wish to College Chairman during the latter attend please complete the booking part of the afternoon. form on page 31.

30 SAIF EDUCATION DAY BOOKING Wednesday 1 November 2017 FORM Leicester Tigers Football Club PLC, Aylestone Road, Leicester LE2 7TR

DELEGATES/S NAME: ......

COMPANY: ......

ADDRESS: ......

......

......

......

...... POST CODE:......

TELEPHONE: ......

EMAIL: ...... n SAIF Members £40pp n Non-members £50pp n IFD College and BIFD Students: £20pp n Members of the IFD College: Complimentary Including morning refreshments Number of attendees Total Payment £ and lunch

You can book and pay by visiting the events page on the SAIF website OR By completing this form and returning to SAIF with payment, which can be made by:

PAYMENT OPTIONS

 Credit Card  Cheque  BACS Please call the SAIF Payable to SAIF Bank: Natwest Bank Business Centre Branch: Camden Town Sort Code: 60-04-24 Bank Account Number: 90098110

Return form to: SAIF Business Centre, 3 Bullfields, Sawbridgeworth, Hertfordshire CM21 9DB Telephone: 01279 726 777 • Fax: 01279 726 300

31 Politics THE LATEST POLITICAL NEWS AND VIEWS SURROUNDING THE FUNERAL PROFESSION

noted that it does not go into many of the areas which have previously been identified for potential change, including Consultations the capped £700 discussed last term in a Policymakers at Holyrood and Westminster are seeking Westminster debate. The Fair Funerals Campaign said: views on the Social Security (Scotland) Bill and the Funeral “Sadly, the plans laid out by the Government Expenses Payments scheme. Make your voice heard won’t tackle the fact that many people who need financial help don’t get it. Neither ll around the UK, people The call for views asks for responses to do they plan to increase the fund, which involved with the funeral the Bill’s seven principles for social security was capped in 2003 and now only pays for profession are being invited and a charter to put them into practice, as around 40% of a funeral. to give their views directly to well as going into detail on some proposals. “But it’s great news that Government policymakers. National SAIF, It also covers the schedules for the Scottish are finally taking action for bereaved Scottish SAIF and Golden Government taking over responsibility people who can’t afford a funeral. Research Charter are all working for current benefits, which include funeral shows that one in seven of us would to collect representative payments. seriously struggle to afford a funeral if opinions and respond to the Following the 23 August deadline someone close to us died. After years of various consultations and for written submissions, the committee ignoring the problem, the UK Government calls for views, but individual will also take oral evidence on the Bill, have recognised that the system is broken Independents are also beginning next month and set to continue and needs to change. This is thanks to the encouraged to make your own voice heard until November, as well as hosting a organisations that have been campaigning by directly responding to the consultations workshop with those who have direct hard, and the people standing up and Amost relevant to you. experience of social security to take bravely telling their personal stories.” their views. Call for views: Social Security (Scotland) Bill Find our more by searching for ‘funeral’ at Due on Wednesday 23 August, Scotland’s To give your views, visit www.gov.uk/government/consultations Social Security Committee is inviting www.parliament.scot and find the responses to the newly created Social consultation under ‘Getting Involved’ Northern Irish Funeral Expenses Security (Scotland) Bill, introduced Payments consultation in June and now being scrutinised by UK Government Funeral Expenses In addition to the UK Government’s the Committee. Payments consultation consultation, Northern Ireland’s Committee Convener Sandra White Westminster is consulting on planned Department for Communities has also said: “It is clear from the principles within changes to the Funeral Expenses Payments opened a consultation on the planned the Bill that the Scottish Government want scheme, which it says are “largely focused Funeral Expenses Payment reforms, people to be at the heart of the new system. on clarifying issues around eligibility closing at the later date of Friday But our committee want to know what and making the process for claiming 15 September. impact these principles will have and what funeral expenses payments simpler”. The Northern Ireland’s consultation asks these will mean for claimants who will consultation closes on Monday 21 August. the same questions as the UK Government have to live with the effects of this Bill. Changes proposed include no longer consultation, giving those affected in “There is no doubt that this Bill marks deducting others’ contributions from Northern Ireland a further option for a major change for Scotland in how the 11 the amount awarded, extending the feeding back their views. l benefits will be delivered. This is why we application period, covering potential want to hear directly from those people to medical examiner fees, and allowing hear their views on whether the Bill will evidence to be submitted electronically. Details can be found at make a difference.” Criticism of the consultation has www.communities-ni.gov.uk

32 Recess dates Debate on horse Please note that the UK’s Parliaments and Assemblies are currently in recesses which are set to carry on into September. safety after funeral incident

MPs debated the safety of riders and horses on rural roads last month, citing a funeral director whose business was “undone” when a car hit his horse-drawn funeral procession. Derek Thomas, Conservative MP for St Ives, called the debate due to a horse-riding constituent’s campaigning to raise drivers’ awareness. He said: “The sentiment that all too often tragedy is not followed by justice is underpinned by high-profile cases such as that of Mark Evans and his horse Wil. Mr Evans was a funeral director who also ran a horse-drawn carriage service. Years spent building up his business were undone in 2016 when a car ploughed into a funeral procession, leaving one horse dead and the family of the deceased devastated. “The incident has left Mr Evans physically and mentally unable to work and in a position where he may have to give up his home due to loss of income. That is just one example of how lives are affected and why this debate is so important. “Cases such as these, repeated up and down the country, are far from inevitable. In fact, 80% of recorded incidents were BURIAL & CREMATION ACT caused by vehicles passing too close or too fast for a horse. We Another Scottish Government position in April 2017, and began are debating an issue that is consultation, this one focused on her work this month. The Scottish eminently preventable.” the Burial & Cremation (Scotland) Government also plans to appoint an Transport Minister Jesse Act, has been extended. It now Inspector of Burial. Norman said he welcomed closes on Friday 1 September, The consultation asks for views co-operation between the British and again Independents are on how inspections should be Horse Society (BHS) and the encouraged to respond. carried out and what powers these Department of Transport to Among the powers provided inspectors should have. help understand the scale of the by the Act is the ability to appoint problem. He said the department’s an Inspector of Funeral Directors; focus had been on raising Natalie McKail was appointed to the Respond at consult.scotland.gov.uk awareness.

Parental Bereavement Bill A new law proposed by the UK Kevin Hollinrake, Conservative MP employer will give them time to grieve. Government would guarantee paid leave for Thirsk and Malton, who sponsored “I have represented a number of to parents who have lost a child. the Bill, said: “This is such an important constituents who have had to deal with Currently, employees are only entitled Bill for parents going through the most the tragedy of losing a child and I am to unpaid leave, for a “reasonable” terrible of times. honoured to be able to do something amount of time agreed with their “There is little any of us can do to help, to help parents in these desperate employer. but at least we can make sure that every circumstances.”

33 SAIFCHARTER

Executive nominees finalised Members of the Executive are elected for a three-year term, and each year a proportion fall due for re-election. The three members mentioned here have indicated their willingness to continue to serve and will face an election against any other suitably qualified candidates who are nominated and who have registered their intention to stand

Adam K Ginder BA MSc MCMI John P Tempest MBIE, Dip FD Anthony O’Hara Dip FD, MBIFD Adam is “I have been involved in funerals “I joined our Managing since 1968. My wife Barbara and I family business Director of bought a funeral business in 1994 in 1997, joining M. K. Ginder & and since then we have opened my parents, Sons Funeral another office and acquired another and now my Directors in funeral business. In 2008/09 sister and Watford. Adam I was elected National President daughter joined the of the BIE. among family business “I have also served as Yorkshire other family following the President of the NAFD among members work sudden and untimely passing of other offices I have held within with us. his father Martyn Ginder, a founder both associations. We have been “I have worked in and managed member of SAIF, back in February 2011. members of SAIF since we bought all areas of our business from At the age of 26, Adam was thrust our business in 1994 and members stonemasonry to funeral planning, to the fore of the family business and of Golden Charter since the late 90s. and in 2014 was invited to be part quickly had to immerse himself in “I enjoy cooking, as you might of SAIFCharter working groups, all areas of the funeral profession. tell from my waistline, and singing – and I am now chair of the Voice of The experience he gained has grown I have sung with many choirs the Funeral Director group, which into an interest in representing the over the years and have sung with influences how Golden Charter broad independent sector’s unique Leeds Minster Choir since 1976 communicates with plan holders needs, which his current role with – classic cars and motor racing and gets feedback from them, helps SAIFCharter reflects. (watching not participating), and ensure SAIFCharter members are He has a master’s degree from I am member of Roundhay Rotary regularly communicated with, and the University of Bristol, and Club. I have recently developed works on major projects like the is a Member of the Chartered a keen interest in gardening, and SAIFCharter website. Management Institute. His previous last but not least we have a black “I am keen to represent all career was in the hospitality Labrador named Jack.” types of Independent, particularly industry, working for three hotel some of the more rural firms chains. He is involved in the Product across the country. My own Development & Innovation and experience shows how important Marketing & Membership Benefits these businesses can be, and Working Groups for SAIFCharter, and their unique challenges and Golden Talent – a joint SAIFCharter- opportunities.” Golden Charter undertaking, bringing “I have helped our company’s together the future leaders of the funeral plan sales grow from 10 a independent funeral profession. year to consistently over 150 sales In addition to his work for a year over the last five years, and SAIFCharter he is also a member we are four times regional Funeral of the Executive Committee of the Planner of the Year winners. London Association of Funeral “Our family business is based Directors. He believes that by on service, standards, care, and bringing funeral directors from the best facilities and staff. My across the country to work together, father instilled this in me and our we can learn from each other and own staff, and it is something I am deliver the best service for the passionate about seeing throughout families we serve. our industry.”

34 Business Matters MEASURING SUCCESS IN BUSINESS + EMPLOYMENT LAW MYTHS + WHO BEARS THE COST? + CALCULATING PAY + ROAD TRAFFIC INCIDENTS + FIRE SAFETY VALUES IN BUSINESS Philip Norris, General Manager of Fred Hamer Funeral Services in Lancashire, discusses the key aspects of running a successful business

s an independent family funeral way we speak helps in the presentation of them through their difficult time. At every business, we have grown and our offering to the families that we serve. interaction, there must be an openness, developed over nearly 100 years, This way of thinking helps families to honesty and trust. starting with one funeral home put their trust in us so that we can give Most funeral directors will always take and now with 25. As a family-run their loved one the best send-off. How we a deposit generally for the cost of the business, we are always looking do this is key. Our values and principles disbursements. If families are struggling to grow and further develop new help to shape the growth of our business. to find deposits, other options will be ideas. The key to our success has In order for us to achieve this, at available, such as finance companies, Abeen established and grounded in our set times we have to think creatively. As a payment plans, or as a last resort, if there of values: business, we are not only interested in are no funds at all, a local council funeral ■■ Trust families who come to us for a funeral – we can be considered. If a person dies in ■■ Openness and honesty are also interested in their aftercare. This hospital, then a hospital funeral can be ■■ Professionalism considered if there are no monies or no ■■ Duty of care next of kin. ■■ Maintaining high standards In our business, we offer bereavement ■■ Value for money support groups, individual counselling, in- ■■ Thinking creatively house ministers/celebrants and a disability Today, there are a number of factors vehicle with ramp access for those family that need to be taken into account when members who cannot get into a limousine. thinking about developing your business Our disability vehicle helps to keep families for strategic growth. together as four family members can also In a world of changing rules and travel in the disability vehicle. We also regulations, changing communities and pride ourselves in the craftsmen in our own changing demands, we have to be even more monumental masonry department. We can conscious of our values in our industry and offer families our finest quality monumental how we present these in our daily business. tributes. We provide a funeral pack that Adhering to our values goes hand in hand highlights all our services, along with with strategic growth. We are all aware of outside funeral products that are available a funeral business that sets up today and is to families. gone tomorrow. Many want to mark their loved one’s The problem for established independent passing through keepsakes or memorials, funeral directors is that we end up being put and with our help, knowledge and into the same category as those who do not professional guidance we help them to help our industry. approach helps to give a broader outlook see what is available. We need to be transparent with full to the business. Developing and trying new things accountability, so “what we say, we do”. With the rising costs of funerals, can only enhance your funeral business. There are stories of funeral directors families are now looking around, Showing what you have to offer behind having funeral plans that are not linked tending to focus on price rather than your doors will only help to develop and to a trust fund, which can lead to the abuse professionalism. Maintaining the highest expand any family-run business. Remember or misspending of funeral plan monies. of standards, whether it is an expensive to think creatively in your offering to the Being independent gives us an added bespoke funeral or the simplest funeral families and the communities we are advantage in that it is our business, and option, is, for us, one of the key values in privileged to serve. how we conduct ourselves sets us apart business, along with professionalism, duty PHILIP NORRIS, from the national companies. of care, openness, honesty and trust. GENERAL MANAGER Our image, vehicles, dress code and the We will work with families to help FRED HAMER FUNERAL SERVICES, LANCASHIRE

35 BUSINESS MATTERS

ASK THE EXPERTS MYTH BUSTERS Employment laws generate a lot of comment. Hardly a day goes by without the media reporting scare stories about the employment rights of UK employees, which are depicted as being anti-competitive, unduly restrictive and in many cases overly generous. In this series, Irwin Mitchell is exposing some of the most common employment law myths and explaining the reality behind them. We are not pretending that employment law is easy – it isn’t – but generally it should not be difficult to get the basics right

WORDS: FERGAL DOWLING, PARTNER, IRWIN MITCHELL LLP

MYTH: A worker can only be accompanied by a trade union official at a disciplinary or grievance hearing if the employer recognises the union.

BUSTED: The right for a worker to be accompanied applies even if you do not recognise the union and even if the worker is not a union member (albeit this could of course mean that it is difficult for such a worker to obtain that assistance). The right is not limited to employees and may therefore include casual, temporary and agency workers. The law provides that a worker has the right to reasonably request that they be accompanied by a colleague of their choice or trade union official at a worker can request for the meeting to be be accompanied is limited to two weeks’ disciplinary or grievance hearing. A trade postponed and rescheduled. If you receive pay currently capped at £958, but recent union official is someone employed by an application to postpone the hearing case law suggests that where the worker the trade union as an official or another for this reason, unless there are very good has not suffered any disadvantage (perhaps person employed by the trade union with reasons for not doing so, you should agree to because they were able to be accompanied appropriate experience. it. That said, you are entitled to deal with the by someone else) awards may be minimal. The only proviso is that the worker’s issues without unnecessary delay and you Workers will sometimes ask to be request to be accompanied must be do not have to put the hearing back weeks accompanied by a lawyer or family friend. reasonable. A request will be reasonable to enable the worker to be accompanied by Unless your policy permits this, you can if it relates to a colleague or trade their companion of choice. usually refuse the request. However, if union official. You must not choose the The law provides that the hearing the worker is disabled, you may have to representative or put any pressure on can be postponed by up to five working consider making a reasonable adjustment the worker to be represented by days, but there is nothing to stop you to accommodate the request or risk a claim a particular person, even if you postponing for a slightly longer for disability discrimination for the failure think that the person they have time and it may be unreasonable to make reasonable adjustments. For chosen is likely to be disruptive or to refuse to do so in circumstances example, an employee who has extreme otherwise prejudice the hearing. where, for example, the companion anxiety might feel less anxious if they A representative has the right can attend six or seven days after were accompanied by a friend or family to address the hearing, but not to the original date. member. You will need to consider such answer questions on behalf of the However, generally, workers requests on a case-by-case basis. l worker and to confer with the are only able to postpone hearings worker during the hearing. due to the unavailability of Difficulties can arise their companion on one Fergal Dowling if the companion occasion. Partner, Irwin Mitchell LLP cannot attend The maximum [email protected] the hearing. If compensation for DDI: 0121 214 5409 this happens the Fergal breach of the right to Irwin Mitchell: 0370 1500100 Dowling

36 Established WHO BEARS THE COST? in 1986, UK200Group Jonathan Russell explores some thinking behind the status of is the leading mutual bearers following recent court rulings and the Taylor Review professional association in the UK with or mourners at any type ■■ the business over 110 UK of funeral service, the provides the quality assured solemn quiet of the materials, tools and independent bearers can be a equipment for their chartered comfort, but for work accountancy the funeral ■■ they only work firms and lawyer director for the business or if firms, as well as they might they do have another 50 International Fbe a headache. job, it’s completely Associate The problem is different from member firms what is often now their work for the around the globe. referred to as the business UK200Group gig economy or ■■ their contract, provide services the definition of statement of terms and products workers. There and conditions that are designed have been a number or offer letter to enhance of cases in recent uses terms such the business times where people as “employer” and performance of may be thought of as being “employee”. its members. self-employed but are claiming This is contrasted by what Telephone: employment rights. So why does HMRC says: someone who works But the HMRC also says: 01252 350733 this impact on the bearer? for a business is probably an A person may be an employee Email: admin@ Many funeral directors or employee if most of the following in employment law but have a uk200group. providers of vehicles to them are true: different status for tax purposes. co.uk have different approaches to how ■■ they are required to work Employers must work out UK200Group they engage with their bearers. regularly unless they’re on leave each worker’s status in both is a trading name Some will argue that they are ■■ they are required to do a employment law and tax law. of UK200Group self-employed and are just paid minimum number of hours It is now that we end up with Limited and is a fee per engagement, and will and expect to be paid for time the concept of a “worker”. an association suggest that the conditions of self- worked The Taylor Review further of separate and employment are met. ■■ a manager or supervisor is recognises the issues and is independently HMRC says someone is responsible for their workload, suggesting more people should owned and probably self-employed and saying when a piece of work get employment rights. managed shouldn’t be paid through PAYE should be finished and how it So returning to our bearers: accountancy and if most of the following are true: should be done ■■ They do work under instruction law firms and as ■■ they’re in business for ■■ they can’t send someone else ■■ They do when engaged have to such each has themselves, are responsible for to do their work work at set times in set places no responsibility the success or failure of their ■■ the business deducts tax ■■ They do have to wear a or liability for business and can make a loss and National Insurance “uniform” the acts or or a profit contributions from their wages More bearers now are omissions of ■■ they can decide what work ■■ they get paid holidays being treated as employees with other members. they do and when, where or ■■ they’re entitled to contractual the associated benefits and costs, UK200Group how to do it or statutory sick pay, and but with the increasing scrutiny does not provide ■■ they can hire someone else to maternity or paternity pay being applied to these sorts client services do the work ■■ they can join the business’ of workers it is probably a and it does ■■ they’re responsible for fixing pension scheme wise choice. l not accept any unsatisfactory work in ■■ the business’ disciplinary and responsibility or their own time grievance procedures apply to liability for the ■■ their employer agrees a fixed them Jonathan Russell is a acts or omissions price for their work – it doesn’t ■■ they work at the chartered accountant and of its members. depend on how long the job business’ premises partner at ReesRussell in takes to finish or at an address Witney Oxfordshire and ■■ they use their own money specified by the Russell Phillips in Gerrards to buy business assets, cover business Cross, Buckinghamshire. running costs, and provide ■■ their contract His firms are members of the tools and equipment for their sets out redundancy UK200Group of Independent work procedures Chartered Accountants and ■■ they can work for more than Law firms. one client.

37 BUSINESS MATTERS SAIF BUSINESS CENTRE UPDATE BY CLAIRE Code of conduct DAY – yes or no? Due to the very nature of our HOW IS A profession, workplace etiquette DAY’S PAY is essential to your business, but do you include a code of CALCULATED? conduct with your employees’ contracts? Not forgetting, of course, There will be occasions where you’ll do this you would need to have an that the SAIF code of practice need to withhold a day’s pay, for express contractual provision in your clearly states that members example, if an employee takes unpaid employment contracts. If they already must conduct themselves in a leave – but how should pay for that day specify a different rate for a day’s pay, totally professional manner at be calculated? this ruling doesn’t alter it. all times, both professionally and privately. If you don’t Unpaid leave References and inaccurate have a code of conduct in There will be many situations where sickness information situ, it might be an idea to you are entitled to deduct a day’s pay, or When providing another employer with put something together. multiple days’ pay, from an employee’s a reference about a current or former This could cover: dignity at salary payment. This might be because employee, you can reveal how many work, dress and appearance, the employee has exercised their right days they were absent in a particular confidentiality and basically to take dependants’ leave (which is an period. But what’s the risk to you if you anything that you feel could unpaid statutory right), has taken an get that information wrong? be included. You won’t be able unauthorised absence or has exhausted Information about sickness absence to cover everything – the list their annual paid holiday entitlement dates can be revealed without an could be quite exhausting – but and wishes to take unpaid leave. employee’s consent but only once a at least your member of staff job offer has been made. Details about will have a better idea of what Calculation the cause(s) of sickness absence may you will or will not accept. A A day’s pay is calculated at the rate of only be disclosed with the employee’s template is available on the HR 1/365th of the annual salary, unless the express and prior consent. section on the members’ area. employment contract says otherwise. If you miscalculate the amount of However, this doesn’t apply if the sickness absence an employee has employee has a set hourly rate rather taken, it could lead to a tribunal claim Waste rules than fixed salary. – that’s because references must be While this ruling goes in favour “honest, accurate and fair”. As it’s really This is a reminder that premises of employees, there’s nothing to stop easy to trip up here, the safer option is in England no longer need to you using a different calculation, e.g. to have a policy of not disclosing any register with the Environment 1/260th, for a day’s pay. In order to details about sickness absence at all. Agency as hazardous waste producers. Secondly, the format of the unique consignment note code, which appears on every consignment note, will change. ENSURE YOUR INSURER HAS ALL THE DETAILS To accommodate the removal of premises HSE reveals 25% of road traffic incidents are work related registration, the format of the consignment note has changed: ccording to the HSE (Health and which vehicles were involved, the location the first six letters of the Safety Executive), more than a quarter of the incident, who was involved, if there consignment note code should of all road traffic incidents involve were any passengers in the vehicle and any be the first six letters or number Asomebody who is driving for work. In witnesses. In addition, they will enquire (not symbols) of the company these situations how can you be sure your about injuries, damage to vehicles and name. Companies whose name insurer will have all the relevant details? whether the police were called (if so you’ll has fewer than six letters will need to provide the reference number). be required to use the letter Driving around ‘Q’ as a filler letter to insert in There are thousands of employees who Other facts the remaining spaces. The either drive an employer-owned vehicle Finally, your insurer could seek information second set of characters will be or their own personal vehicle for work- about the road and weather conditions at the five numbers or letters of the related purposes each week. If one of your time of the incident, whether anyone was company’s choosing. employees is involved in a road traffic breathalysed at the scene and about hospitals/ The requirement for the incident while driving on work-related GPs attended for treatment. Many insurers SIC code on the consignment business, you will need all the relevant will also ask those involved to provide a note will also change and only details to pass to your insurer. sketch of the scene and what happened. SIC 2007 and NACE will be The trouble is that insurers aren’t known acceptable, as is already the Required information for working quickly so it could be some case with Waste Transfer Notes. At the very least, your insurer will want time until that information is requested. Visit www.gov.uk/guidance/ the personal details of the employee who By then memories might have faded. hazardous-waste-consignment- was driving at the time, i.e. their full note-supplementary-guidance name, job title, home address and contact Further information can be found on numbers. They will also want to know the HSE website ‘Driving at work’.

38 SAIF BUSINESS CENTRE UPDATE BY CLAIRE DAY SIMPLE STEPS TO PREVENT TRAGEDY Simon Bloxham, Health & Safety Strategist for Safety for Business, answers your questions on fire risks and prevention at work

here is no doubt about the needs to know about fire prevention is Evacuation procedure: fact that the terrible tragedy aware of what to do. ■■ Develop an evacuation procedure and at Grenfell Tower has had the make sure employees are aware of it effect of focusing the minds of Decide who could be harmed ■■ Ensure that the procedure includes many a business owner, as well Think about your employees and visitors. provision for any deaf or otherwise as possibly everyone else in the Will they have a problem leaving the disabled persons on the premises and UK. You have probably asked premises? Do they know what to do in that someone is able to give assistance to yourself some of these questions: the event of a fire? If there are some evacuate the building to disabled persons Twould I survive a fire in my workplace? difficulties with evacuation, start to plan ■■ Have a fire warning system (like alarm What about my employees, or the people for it now and make sure everyone is or smoke detector) and test these renting the flat upstairs? Do I comply with aware of what to do. weekly to ensure they work fire safety regulations? What do I do next? ■■ Position fire extinguishers at appropriate Taking some simple steps can not Evaluate the risk locations and check them regularly to only keep you on the good side of the A professional assessor will use a matrix ensure they are still in place, in date and authorities, but may just save a life and for this. What you need to do to make it have not been tampered with keep your business going. easy is just to think about whether people ■■ Inspect the means of escape monthly are at risk or not. If they are you need and remove any obstructions as soon What can I do? to do something about it; if you aren’t as they are noticed As an employer, you have a general duty of putting them at risk, then you must be ■■ Conduct fire evacuation drills regularly – care for your employees and anyone affected doing enough. we would recommend every six months by your work and this includes making sure ■■ If necessary, appoint an employee to be that fire safety is taken seriously. Record it responsible for specific procedures in First step is to complete a fire safety I constantly get business owners telling me the event of fire risk assessment for you premises. It is they do not have to do a risk assessment like any other risk assessment, in that because they don’t employ enough people. Electrical and gas safety: you should focus on the five steps that Wrong, wrong, wrong and definitely in ■■ Have fixed electrical installations the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) the case of fire risk assessments, wrong. and portable appliances tested and say you should do, to achieve a suitable If you end up in court you are going to inspected on a regular basis and sufficient risk assessment. The five need to be able to prove that you did a ■■ Ensure any gas appliances are tested steps include: risk assessment. So write it down. You by a Gas Safe-registered person on an 1. Identify the hazards don’t need all the bells and whistles but annual basis 2. Decide who might be harmed and how you do need to list out what you ■■ If you use portable heaters then: 3. Evaluate the risks and decide on identified as a hazard, who you identified • have a competent person inspect and precautions as at risk and what actions you are taking test before use 4. Record your findings and implement as a result. • site so as to avoid any risk of ignition them of combustible materials 5. Review it and update when necessary Tips for a safer workplace ■■ Do not use radiant bar-style electric fires General fire safety: Identifying those hazards ■■ Keep combustible waste to a minimum Help is at hand You might remember being taught about and away from any ignition sources If you don’t want to hear “you can’t do a triangle of fire. This consisted of the ■■ Ensure all employees are aware of this” then talk to a safety professional at three elements you needed to have a fire. their nearest fire alarm, fire exit and Safety For Business free of charge, simply The elements were fuel, heat and oxygen. assembly point by calling 08456 344164. The basis was simple: if you wanted to ■■ Train all employees on fire safety and You are also entitled to a discount on our prevent or extinguish a fire, take one prevention fees when we help you with your health of the sides away. For example, get ■■ Encourage good housekeeping and safety needs. We can visit to see how rid of combustible materials and arrangements you are doing when it comes to compliance. you won’t get a fire. Smother a fire ■■ Store all flammable substances This is free of charge, apart from travel and exclude the oxygen by using a correctly costs, so what do you have to lose? l fire blanket and the fire goes out. ■■ Check any smoking area that Getting rid of risk completely you have and empty the ashtray is almost impossible and really safely all you can do is put in place ■■ Ask your employees control measures and make to report to you any fire sure that everyone who hazards that they notice

39 RSMs/BDMs YOUR RSMS AND BDMS SCOTLAND AND IRELAND NORTH ENGLAND EAST ENGLAND WEST ENGLAND AND WALES

Richard Auchincloss Drew McAllister Richard Todd Daniel Hare National Sales National Sales National Sales National Sales Manager Manager Manager Manager M: 07801 853 222 M: 07711 368 114 M: 07833 682 697 M: 07717 696 683 E: richard.auchincloss E: drew.mcallister@ E: richard.todd@ E: daniel.hare@ @goldencharter.co.uk goldencharter.co.uk goldencharter.co.uk goldencharter.co.uk

Rosie Kinley Anthony Parkinson Steve Bennett Aldwell Bosanquet Scotland BDM North England, East England, North West Midlands & M: 07850 655 420 West Lancashire London, South East North Wales, South E: rosie.kinley@ & Merseyside, London, South East Wales, Central goldencharter.co.uk Yorkshire & East England, South West Midlands, South Lancashire, East London & Southern Midlands BDM Midlands BDM England BDM M: 07850 659 705 M: 07809 334 870 M: 07803 015 514 E: aldwell.bosanquet@ E: anthony.parkinson@ E: steve.bennett@ goldencharter.co.uk goldencharter.co.uk goldencharter.co.uk

Linda Paul Nicholas Steffan Davies 1 Harvie 5 Hodgson 9 Dawson 15 West Midlands North Scotland North England East Midlands & North Wales M: 07900 557 850 M: 07834 417 315 M: 07921 066 740 M: 07740 239 404 E: linda.harvie@ E: paul.hodgson@ E: nicholas.dawson@ E: steffan.davies@ goldencharter.co.uk goldencharter.co.uk goldencharter.co.uk goldencharter.co.uk

Jacqui Amy Smithson Jon Stephen 2 Johnston 6 Yorkshire & 10 Briggs 16 Heath Central Scotland East Lancashire East England South Central Midlands M: 07900 580 611 M: 07711 368 112 M: 07717 882 955 M: 07809 320 838 E: jacqui.johnston@ E: amy.smithson@ E: jon.briggs@ E: stephen.heath@ goldencharter.co.uk goldencharter.co.uk goldencharter.co.uk goldencharter.co.uk

Martin Terry McIlwaine David Paul 3 Smith 7West Lancashire 11Oliver 17 Firth South Scotland & Merseyside North London South Wales M: 07850 659 711 M: 07718 358 443 M: 07711 368 059 M: 07720 097 534 E: martin.smith@ E: terry.mcilwaine@ E: david.oliver@ E: paul.firth@ goldencharter.co.uk goldencharter.co.uk goldencharter.co.uk goldencharter.co.uk

Konrad Amanda Iain Rob 4Wilkinson 8 Hodson 12 Catchpole 18 Antonelli Northern Ireland & Central Midlands South East London West England Republic of Ireland M: 07714 923 342 M: 07568 100 555 M: 07718 358 440 M: 07715 038 663 E: amanda.hodson@ E: iain.catchpole@ E: rob.antonelli@ E: konrad.wilkinson@ goldencharter.co.uk goldencharter.co.uk goldencharter.co.uk goldencharter.co.uk Neil Terry 13 Hodgson 19 Lee South East England South West England M: 07718 706 311 M: 07713 309 750 E: neil.hodgson@ E: terry.lee@ goldencharter.co.uk goldencharter.co.uk

Russell 14 Cooper South West London & Southern England M: 07720 095 204 E: russell.cooper@ goldencharter.co.uk

40 1

2

3 5

4 6

7 9 8 15 10 16

17 11

12 18 14 19 13

The map shows the numbered regions that our Regional Sales Managers (RSMs) cover. See the RSM list opposite for your region and their contact details. You can get in touch with your RSM regarding anything you need to know about Golden Charter.

If your business doesn’t have an assigned Regional Sales Manager, speak to Golden Charter’s Business Development Managers (BDMs) about growing your business. Your local BDM can help you to identify your business requirements. To get in touch with the BDM for your area, use the contact details on the map.

41 SAIF Associates Directory 2017

CARRIAGE MASTERS & 01992 523863 Funeralmap Ltd HORSEDRAWN CARRIAGES [email protected] Mr T J Hitchman (Basingstoke) D A Gathercole Funeral Carriage Masters www.greenacrescelebrate.co.uk 0330 223 0279 • [email protected] Mr D Gathercole (Wisbech, Cambridgeshire) GreenAcres Woodland Burials Chiltern www.funeralmap.co.uk 01945 583974 Mr Peter Taylor (Buckinghamshire) G T Embalming Service Ltd Superior UK Automotive Ltd 01494 872158 Mr G G Taylor (Brighton) Mr Peter Smith (Aldermaston) [email protected] 01273 693772 • [email protected] 0118 971 4444 • [email protected] www.gtembalming.com www.greenacrescelebrate.co.uk/chiltern www.superioruk.com Hygeco Lear GreenAcres Woodland Burials Colney Woods Garage (Carriage Masters) Ms H Lockwood (Leeds, West Yorkshire) Ms Sam Curtis (Norwich, Norfolk) Mr D Wood (Sevenoaks) 0113 277 8244 01603 811556 01732 453256 • [email protected] [email protected] • www.hygeco-lear.co.uk [email protected] THW Refrigeration Ltd CASKET & COFFIN www.greenacrescelebrate.co.uk/colney Mr W Quail (Camberley, Surrey) MANUFACTURERS GreenAcres Woodland Burials Epping 01276 601039 • [email protected] Bradnam Joinery Ltd Mrs Deborah McNamara (Essex) www.mortuaryequipmentdirect.co.uk Mr B Spittle (Haverhill, Suffolk) 01992 523863 01440 761404 • [email protected] [email protected] FINANCE & www.bradnamjoinery.co.uk www.greenacrescelebrate.co.uk/epping PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Colourful Coffins GreenAcres Woodland Burials Rainford Close Brothers Ltd Ms M Tomes (Oxford) Mrs Karen Halpin (Merseyside) t/a Braemar Finance (Dundonald) 01865 779172 • [email protected] 01744 649189 01563 852100 • [email protected] www.colourfulcoffins.com [email protected] www.braemarfinance.co.uk DFS Caskets www.greenacrescelebrate.co.uk/rainford Frontline Communications Group Ltd Mr Martin Smith (Annan, Dumfries & Galloway) Mr D Jones (Portsmouth) GreenAcres Woodland Burials Heatherley Wood 01461 205114 • [email protected] 01489 866630 • [email protected] Ms Michelle Smith (East Hampshire) www.dfscaskets.co.uk www.wearefrontline.co.uk 01428 715915 W Gadsby & Son Ltd Goldray Funeral Consultancy Ltd [email protected] Mr P Gadsby (Bridgwater, Somerset) Mr R Barradell (Beverley, East Yorkshire) 01278 437123 • [email protected] www.greenacreswoodlandburials.co.uk 01964 503055 • [email protected] www.gadsbywickercoffins.co.uk /heatherley-wood Ideal Sales Solutions t/a Ideal4Finance J & R Tweedie Herongate Wood Cemetery Mrs E Corcoran (Kirkham) Mr R Tweedie (Annan, Dumfries & Galloway) Ms J Sawtell (Billericay, Essex) 01772 671355 • [email protected] 01461 206099 • www.jrtweedie.co.uk 01277 633085 • www.green-burial.co.uk www.ideal4finance.com J. C. Walwyn & Sons Ltd [email protected] Kings Court Trust Ltd Mr K Walwyn (Ashbourne, Derbyshire) Westerleigh Group Ltd Miss J Clayton (Bristol) 01335 345555 • [email protected] Mr R Evans (Bristol, South Gloucestershire) 0300 303 9000 • [email protected] www.jcwalwyn.co.uk 0117 937 1050 www.kctrust.co.uk Leslie R Tipping Ltd [email protected] Occupational Safety Systems (UK) Ltd Mr J Tipping (Stockport, Cheshire) www.westerleighgroup.co.uk Mr S Bloxham 0161 480 7629 • [email protected] (Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire) www.lrtipping.co.uk CLOTHING 0845 634 4166 • [email protected] Musgrove Willows Ltd ACS Clothing Ltd www.safetyforbusiness.co.uk Mrs E Musgrove (Westonzoyland, Somerset) Ms P Robertson (Motherwell) The Probate Bureau 01278 699162 • [email protected] Mr D Hartley West (Ware, Hertfordshire) 0141 781 6530 • [email protected] www.musgrovewillowcoffins.com 01920 443590 • [email protected] www.funeralsuithire.co.uk Natural Woven Products Ltd www.probatebureau.com Mr A & Mr D Hill (Bridgwater, Somerset) Keltic Clothing Redwood Collections 01278 588011 Mr D Barry & Mrs L Kendrick (West Midlands) Mr S & Mr A North (Surrey) [email protected] 08450 666699 • [email protected] 0208 288 3555 • www.redwoodcollections.com www.naturalwovenproducts.co.uk www.kelticclothing.co.uk [email protected] P & L Manufacturing Ltd Waterfront Manufacturing Ltd SAIFInsure (Unicorn Insurance Brokers) Mrs S Leighton (Gloucester) Mr A Jenkinson (East Harling, Norfolk) Mr B Hart 01684 274683 • [email protected] 01953 718719 • [email protected] 0203 603 4194 • 0774 057 7654 Passages International Inc. Ltd www.waterfrontmanufacturing.co.uk [email protected] Mr R Crouch (Maidenhead, Berkshire) www.saifinsure.co.uk 01628 633730 • [email protected] EDUCATION AND TRAINING SAIF Resolve (Scott & Mears) www.passagesinternational.co.uk Independent Funeral Directors College Ltd Bill Baddeley (Southend on Sea, Essex) Somerset Willow England Corinne Pengelly • 0345 230 6777 01702 312737 • [email protected] Mrs H Hill (Bridgwater, Somerset) [email protected] • www.ifdcollege.org www.saifresolve.co.uk 01278 424003 Training2Care (UK) Ltd Skingle, Helps & Co [email protected] Mr G Knight (Colchester, Essex) Mr J Helps (Carshalton Beeches, Surrey) www.willowcoffins.co.uk 0208 770 1095 • www.helps.co.uk 01376 573 999 • [email protected] Tributes Ltd South Essex Insurance Brokers Ltd www.training2care.co.uk Mr S Hoare (Poling, West Sussex) The Manager (South Ockendon, Essex) 08453 888742 • [email protected] 01708 850000 • www.seib.co.uk EQUIPMENT & SERVICES www.tributes.ltd.uk Trident Marketing Anglia Ltd CPL Supplies Urns UK Ltd Mrs V Beswick/Mr R Pearce (Semer, Ipswich) Mr P & Mrs B Patel (Potters Bar, Herts) Mr W McGuckin (Castlederg, N Ireland) 01473 823700 01707 645519 • [email protected] 028 8167 1247 [email protected] www.urnsuk.com [email protected] • www.cplsupplies.com www.tridentmarketinguk.com Fibrous UK200group.co.uk CEMETERIES & CREMATORIA Mr G Hart (Stockport) Ms S Wise (Aldershot, Hampshire) GreenAcres Woodand Burials 0161 429 6080 • [email protected] 01252 401050 • [email protected] Mrs Carmen Graham www.fibrous.com www.uk200group.co.uk

42 Zebra Finance Ltd Forget Me Not Today Ltd When We Remember Mr A Snape (Derby) Mr M O’Connor (Chichester) Jim Abraham (Narrabeen, New South Wales) 01332 680400 • www.zebrafinance.com 0800 783 3299 • [email protected] 0061 429 400 100 [email protected] www.forgetmenottoday.com [email protected] Fotoplex Grigio Ltd www.whenweremember.com FUNERAL OFFICIANTS Mr C Gray (Fareham, Hampshire) The White Dove Company Limited Association of Independent Celebrants 01329 311920 • [email protected] Mr K Proctor (Loughton, Essex) Mr P Spicksley (Northampton) www.fotoplex.co.uk 0208 508 1414 07783 323324 Hushland Portraits [email protected] [email protected] Mr W A Taylor-Beales (Colchester) www.thewhitedovecompany.co.uk www.independentcelebrants.com 07870 515984 • [email protected] British Humanist Association www.hushlandportraits.com PRINTING & STATIONERY Mr A Copson (London) Life Expressions (UK & Europe) Ltd Gateway Publishing (Part of Mimeo (UK) LTD) 0207 079 3580 • [email protected] (Castleton, Derbyshire) Mr M Moore (Huntingdon) www.humanism.org.uk 0800 368 9233 • [email protected] 01480 410444 • [email protected] Civil Ceremonies Ltd www.lifeexpressionsltd.co.uk www.gateway-publishing.co.uk Anne Barber (Kettering, Northamptonshire) Love2Donate Polstead Press 01480 276080 • [email protected] Mr C Hankin & Mr B Thorogood Tracy Goymer (Stowmarket, Suffolk) www.civilceremonies.co.uk (Olney, Buckinghamshire) 01449 677500 • [email protected] County Celebrants Network 0754 1165924 • [email protected] www.polsteadpress.co.uk Mr Eric Gill (Wiltshire) www.love2donate.co.uk RNS Publications 07770 625378 • [email protected] MacIntyre Memorials Ltd Mr C Shaw (Blackpool, Lancashire) 01253 832400 • [email protected] • www.rns.co.uk www.countycelebrantsnetwork.com Mr A MacIntyre (Glasgow, Strathclyde) Fellowship of Professional Celebrants 0141 882 8000 • [email protected] REMOVAL & Mrs T Shanks (Worthing, West Sussex) www.macintyrememorials.co.uk REPATRIATION SERVICES 01903 602795 • [email protected] Memory Giving Alba Repatriation & Cremated www.professionalcelebrants.org.uk Mr J and Mr M Walker (Reading, Berks) Remains Transportation Institute of Civil Funerals 0845 600 8660 • [email protected] Mr S Murren (Paisley, Renfrewshire) Barbara G Pearce (Kettering, Northamptonshire) www.memorygiving.com 07834 489766 01480 861411 • [email protected] • www.iocf.org.uk The MuchLoved Charitable Trust Mr J Davies/Ms J Baker [email protected] • www.albarepat.co.uk (Amersham, Buckinghamshire) Cremated Remains Transport Services FUNERAL PLANNING Lord John P A Kersley (Bognor Regis, West Sussex) Golden Charter Ltd 01494 722818 [email protected] • www.muchloved.com 01243 583913 • [email protected] Mr M Flanders (Glasgow, Strathclyde) www.advancesalesuk.com 0141 931 6300 Scattering Ashes Mr R Martin (Newton Abbot, Devon) Euro-City Direct Ltd [email protected] Mr J W Kindleysides (Dorking, Surrey) www.goldencharter.co.uk 01392 581012 • [email protected] www.scattering-ashes.co.uk 01306 632952 • [email protected] Golden Leaves Ltd Guy Elliot Ltd Mr S Rowlands (Croydon, Surrey) Secure Haven Ltd Mrs C Yarwood (Margaretting, Essex) Mr G Elliot (Kingswells, Aberdeen) 0208 684 3464 01277 323776 • [email protected] 0777 0407610 • [email protected] [email protected] www.securehaven.co.uk Kenyon International Emergency Services www.goldenleaves.com Shaw’s Funeral Products, Shaw & Sons Ltd Mr R Rowntree (Bracknell, Berkshire) Ms Sarah Smith (Crayford, Kent) 01344 316650 GRAVEDIGGER & 01322 621100 • [email protected] [email protected] EXHUMATION SERVICES www.shawsfuneralproducts.co.uk www.kenyoninternational.com DTH Burial & Churchyard Services Key Air – The Repatriation People Mr D Homer (Measham, Swadlincote) OTHERS Mr B Birdsall (Hayes, Middlesex) 07912 855460 • [email protected] 0208 756 0500 Dr Bill Webster Grief Journey [email protected] • www.keyair.eu IT & WEBSITE 07711 908805 • www.griefjourney.com National Repatriation Cloudberry Funeral Mr T W Hathaway (Cusworth, Doncaster) FSJ Communications 07780 118458 • [email protected] Management Solutions Ltd (Worthing, West Sussex) Miss A Bieri (Brixham, Devon) www.nationalrepatriation.co.uk 01903 604338 • [email protected] Staffords Repatriation Services 01803 225101 www.fsj.co.uk [email protected] Mr J Stafford & Mr C Davis (Dublin) Funeral Zone Ltd 00353 18550555 • [email protected] www.funeralmanagement.net Mr E Gallois/Mr K Homeyard (Exeter) EMCOM Software Services 01392 409760 • www.funeralzone.co.uk SOFT GOODS & FUNERAL SUPPLIES Kat Adams (Derby) [email protected] Allsops CTF Ltd 01332 587740 • [email protected] Funeralbooker Ltd Mr G Allsop (Worthing, West Sussex) www.emcomsoftware.co.uk Mr J Dunn/Mr I Strang (London) 01903 213991 • [email protected] Eulogica 0208 629 1600 • [email protected] Bradnam Joinery Ltd Mr D I Wright (London) • 0845 351 9935 www.funeralbooker.com Mr B Spittle (Haverhill, Suffolk) [email protected] • www.eulogica.com Lovingly Managed 01440 761404 • [email protected] I-NETCO Ltd Ms D Jones (Bridgend) www.bradnamjoinery.co.uk Mr G King (Newcastle upon Tyne) 07786 382336 Clarke & Strong Ltd 0845 431 0463 • [email protected] www.lovinglymanaged.com Mr B Fry (Coventry, West Midlands) www.funeraldirectorwebsites.co.uk [email protected] Oak Technology Ltd 0247 622 1513 • [email protected] The Bereavement Register (London) www.clarkeandstrong.com Mr S Richardson (Wakefield, West Yorkshire) 0207 089 6400 Leslie R Tipping Ltd 0844 414 2199 [email protected] [email protected] Mr J Tipping (Stockport, Cheshire) www.thebereavementregister.org.uk 0161 480 7629 • [email protected] www.funeralsoftware.co.uk Network Telegram.com www.lrtipping.co.uk (Part of Network Telex Group) Thorley Smith Ltd MEMORIALS & REMEMBRANCE Mr P Clarke (Ferndown, Dorset) Mr D Tonks (Wigan) Acorn UK (2006) Ltd 01202 868630 01942 243331 • [email protected] Mrs Wendy Owen (West Kingsdown, Kent) www.networktelegram.com www.thorleysmith.com 01474 853672 / 07956 143049 [email protected] [email protected] • www.acorn-uk.co.uk Professional Help Ltd Cleverley & Spencer Mrs C Betley (Burton in Kendal) Mr I R Spencer (Ashford, Kent) 01524 782910 01233 630600 • [email protected] www.professionalhelp.org.uk www.clevspen.co.uk [email protected] Cleverley & Spencer Smart Media Marketing Ltd (afuneralnotice) Mr I R Spencer (Dover, Kent) Mr A Govind (Leicester) 01304 206379 • [email protected] 0116 298 9270 • [email protected] www.clevspen.co.uk www.afuneralnotice.co.uk

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